Queensland Ballet Exceeds Its Fundraising Goal Campaign benefits the next generation of dancers
Queensland Ballet
Key Facts:On its annual Gift Giving Day, Queensland Ballet raised $2.24 million – surpassing the original goal of $2 million, and the highest total the Company has achieved since their inaugural Giving Day in 2019.
Brisbane, 11 September 2025: Queensland Ballet has announced the successful completion of its annual Giving Day campaign, held on Tuesday 9th September, which brought together more than 1000 donors to raise an outstanding $2.24 million – surpassing the original goal of $2 million, and the highest total the Company has achieved since their inaugural Giving Day in 2019.
Launched to strengthen the Company’s long-term vision, the campaign’s primary purpose is to support Queensland Ballet Academy – an evolution of the Company’s commitment to ballet training which started in 1953, making the Academy Australia’s first dedicated professional training organisation for aspiring ballet dancers. Funds raised will contribute directly to world-class training opportunities, educational resources, and the development of future generations of artists who will carry the artform forward.
Queensland Ballet Academy Director, Christian Tàtchev, celebrated the announcement after the 9pm deadline.
“Our supporters rallied with remarkable generosity, with every donation quadrupled by the commitment of our match donors with whom we have been engaging since our last Giving Day. This extraordinary response highlights the deep belief our community has in nurturing the next generation of dancers and storytellers,” Mr Tàtchev said.
In addition to the valued financial contributions, Queensland Ballet received hundreds of messages of encouragement and goodwill from donors across the state and beyond. The Dancers embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, rallying their networks and going head-to-head in a friendly team competition that brought energy and excitement to the day. From creative social media posts to personal phone conversations with donors, the Dancers welcomed the opportunity to make impact for the Academy – where more than half trained.
“We were truly buoyed by the heartfelt notes that accompanied so many donations – stories from families and long-time ballet lovers who wanted to share what Queensland Ballet means to them. These messages remind us that our work reaches far beyond the stage and is embraced by our wider community. Where we have relevance, we will continue to strive hard,” Ms Weerasinghe, Executive Director, added.
Supporter well wishes included:
“I love all QB’s shows!!” - Minami said
“Your hard work brings such beauty and joy - thank you!” – Karen said
“So grateful for everything QB does for our community and the arts in Qld” – Anonymous said
“Keep shining, keep inspiring, and may future generations follow your path”- Jiovani said
“Sending love and support to QB's future dancers, especially the #balletboys” – Baker-Dowell Family said
“What an amazing cause for the future “– Lillian said
“The success of our Giving Day is really a celebration of our community coming together to ensure meaningful pathways for aspiring dancers, the future of our art form. We hustle unapologetically, hand-in-hand with our Academy families, to ensure that their dreams come true. The road ahead is bright for them and for Queensland Ballet as we prepare for the upcoming inaugural season of works by our new Artistic Director, Ivan Gil-Ortega,” Ms Weerasinghe added.
Fuel the Future Giving Day campaign reflects Queensland Ballet’s commitment not only to excellence in performance, but also to education, accessibility, and community connection. With the success of this year’s effort, the company is now poised to expand opportunities for young dancers and deepen its impact within the cultural fabric of Queensland and Australia.
# ENDS #
Editors Note;
Interviews please contact: Claire Vince, PR and Communications Manager,
[email protected] / 0468 426 910
About Queensland Ballet Academy
Queensland Ballet provides industry-informed ballet and dance training pathways through our world-class Academy, developing dancers towards professional careers in Australia and overseas. Together, we are nurturing the dancers of the future. Under the direction of Academy Director, Christian Tátchev, Queensland Ballet Academy provides comprehensive professional ballet and dance training programs and events for students from age 6 through to career employment.
Queensland Ballet's mission is to contribute to Australia's cultural landscape by being an integral part of the national and international ballet ecology - striving for artistic excellence, pathways for emerging artists, and impact through our community outreach, education, and dance health programs. We aim to enrich lives and contribute to wellness across society through the magic of ballet.
About us:
About Queensland Ballet Academy
Queensland Ballet provides industry-informed ballet and dance training pathways through our world-class Academy, developing dancers towards professional careers in Australia and overseas. Together, we are nurturing the dancers of the future. Under the direction of Academy Director, Christian Tátchev, Queensland Ballet Academy provides comprehensive professional ballet and dance training programs and events for students from age 6 through to career employment.
Queensland Ballet's mission is to contribute to Australia's cultural landscape by being an integral part of the national and international ballet ecology - striving for artistic excellence, pathways for emerging artists, and impact through our community outreach, education, and dance health programs. We aim to enrich lives and contribute to wellness across society through the magic of ballet.
Contact details:
Interviews please contact: Claire Vince, PR and Communications Manager,
[email protected] / 0468 726 910