Leaping into Queensland’s premier ballet academy

News
March 9, 2020

The highly anticipated Queensland Ballet Academy at Kelvin Grove State College has officially opened.

Education Minister and McConnel MP Grace Grace joined the Governor of Queensland, Kelvin Grove SC Executive Principal Llew Paulger, Queensland Ballet Artistic Director Li Cunxin and the school community in opening the facility.

“Today is historic day for the arts in Brisbane and Queensland,” Ms Grace said.

“The Palaszczuk Government was proud to have invested $17.7 million to construct this world-class building which was built by Paynters, supporting 53 full-time jobs.

“We know how much this amazing centre means to our state school students who have their eye on a professional career in ballet.”

“The building features six large dance studios, two multi-purpose rooms, a gym, physio room and staff rooms. In 2020, the academy will be able to accommodate up to 180 students.” said Ms Grace.

The new Queensland Ballet Academy at Kelvin Grove State College combines world class ballet education and training with our world-class educational programs. Having the ballet academy actually located within the College, is the first ballet academy of its type anywhere in the world.

Ms Grace said the construction of the facility also provided great work experience for aspiring tradies.

“I was delighted to hear that two Kelvin Grove State College students – Leo Hodges and Ashley Birkwhistle – completed traineeships by working on the project from start to finish,” she said.

“Both students completed a Certificate II in Civil Construction with the contractor Paynters.”

Paynters are currently on site putting the final touches on the Multipurpose Hall, with covered walkways well underway, linking the Ballet Academy and the school together. It’s expected that this project will be ready for the start of term 2.