The Australian Ballet will stage a momentous return to Tokyo from May 30 to June 1, 2025, its first visit to Japan in 15 years and the company’s seventh tour there since its debut in 1968. Led by Artistic Director David Hallberg, this milestone occasion will feature the company’s acclaimed production of Don Quixote, Rudolf Nureyev’s iconic ballet and a defining work in The Australian Ballet’s repertoire.
The Japan tour marks a meaningful milestone as the second international outing under David Hallberg’s artistic direction, offering Don Quixote as a magnificent homage to Rudolf Nureyev’s enduring legacy with The Australian Ballet. Nureyev first collaborated with the company in 1964, and in 1970, he crafted this spirited production. Featuring dazzling bravura dancing, opulent costumes, and elaborate sets by Barry Kay, Don Quixote brings to life a vivid portrayal of Spain, weaving a story pulsing with vitality and passion.
The Australian Ballet Artistic Director David Hallberg said: “Returning to Japan with Don Quixote is an opportunity for The Australian Ballet to connect with our audiences abroad and showcase the rich artistry within this production. This tour is a celebration of Nureyev’s iconic work and highlights the talent of our dancers, brought to life through Barry Kay’s vibrant designs and the captivating story of Don Quixote. We are honoured to deepen our cultural ties with Japan, and I hope our audiences in Tokyo will be as enchanted by this masterpiece as we are proud to share it.”
Since its founding in 1962, The Australian Ballet has served as a global ambassador for the arts in Australia, performing in 38 countries and 88 cities worldwide. This Tokyo tour reciprocates a recent cultural exchange, following the Australian debut of The Tokyo Ballet, administered by Japan Performing Arts Foundation (NBS), the presenter of this Japan tour. During their 2023 visit to Melbourne, they captivated audiences with Giselle.
The Japan tour will take place at the prestigious Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, one of Japan’s most renowned performance venues, recognised for showcasing premier international ballet companies. Presented by Japan Performing Arts Foundation (NBS), The Australian Ballet’s performances will span four shows, bringing together audiences to experience this masterwork on an exceptional stage.
The tour represents a remarkable logistical achievement, with over 100 members of The Australian Ballet—including dancers, production staff, wardrobe team, and medical personnel—traveling to Tokyo alongside the sets, costumes, and equipment needed to stage Don Quixote. This dedication to quality guarantees that Japanese audiences will witness the production in all its glory, from the intricate costumes and evocative Spanish scenery to the choreography that embodies Nureyev’s artistic brilliance.
The tour is a testament to the deep cultural relationship between The Australian Ballet and Japan, which has flourished for over 50 years.
Japan Performing Arts Foundation (NBS) Executive Director Norio Takahashi shares, “It’s truly special to welcome The Australian Ballet back to Tokyo after 15 years, especially after our own company, The Tokyo Ballet, visited Australia in 2023. Japanese audiences have been eagerly waiting to see these remarkable artists, and we couldn’t be more excited to share their talent with them. This tour is a wonderful cultural exchange, and we’re looking forward to watching our audiences connect with the passion, artistry, and technical brilliance that The Australian Ballet brings to Don Quixote.”
For tickets and more information, visit https://australianballet.com.au/performances/2025-tokyo-tour
The Australian Ballet Don Quixote, Image credit The Australian Ballet
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