En Pointe Patrons support for RNZB initiatives
The RNZB Foundation is delighted to acknowledge its En Pointe Patrons, whose support is helping to bring exciting new projects to life at the Royal New Zealand Ballet.
In March, the Foundation hosted events in Auckland and Wellington to acknowledge and engage with its valued En Pointe Patrons. Established in Auckland in 2020 and expanded to Wellington in 2022, the En Pointe Patron programme invites supporters to donate $2,000 annually—half directed to RNZB projects and half invested in the Foundation’s long-term fund.
The Auckland gathering was hosted by Foundation trustee Louise Binns and her husband Mark, while the Wellington event was hosted by Chair Jane Meares and her husband Denis. Both events brought together RNZB leadership, artists, and supporters for meaningful conversations.
This year, Patrons voted to support a wide range of initiatives that reflect the RNZB’s artistic vision and commitment to dancer wellbeing:
Bringing My Brilliant Career to the Stage
Both Auckland and Wellington Patrons are contributing towards the staging of Cathy Marston’s acclaimed ballet My Brilliant Career, originally created for Queensland Ballet. The support is making a contribution towards RNZB costs of bring UK-based repetiteur Jenny Tattersall to New Zealand to set the work for its national premiere.
New Musical Arrangement for The Firebird
Wellington Patrons are supporting the commissioning of a new arrangement of Stravinsky’s The Firebird by RNZB Principal Conductor Hamish McKeich. Originally performed in 2021 with recorded music, the upcoming 2025 revival will feature a full live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland, and Christchurch—adding a new level of energy and emotion to Loughlan Prior’s celebrated production.
Costume Creation for Chrysalis
Auckland Patrons are funding the design and production of costumes for Chrysalis, a new work by RNZB Choreographer in Residence Shaun James Kelly, with costume designs by Auckland fashion designer Rory William Docherty. Chrysalis will premiere as part of the Home, Land and Sea programme in July 2025.
Career Transition Pilot Programme
Wellington Patrons are also supporting the launch of a pilot dancer career transition programme in partnership with Pivot Pointe. This initiative will offer one-on-one support for six dancers as they begin planning for their futures beyond the stage.
The RNZB Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to En Pointe Patrons for their support and shared commitment to a flourishing future for ballet in Aotearoa.
