The Secret Lives of Dancers
Ever wondered what it is like behind the scenes at the Royal New Zealand Ballet? You can finally find out.
The RNZB is lifting the lid on what happens off-stage in a new television series on TV3.
The Secret Lives of Dancers is the ultimate backstage pass for fans of New Zealand’s renowned national ballet company.
Narrated by Hilary Barry, the series goes behind the glitz and the glamour and into the dressing rooms, hotel rooms and even the dancers’ homes to expose the grueling training schedules, the fierce competition for roles, and the devastation an injury can bring for a dancer.
See how a major production comes together, from the choreography and rehearsals, to the costuming and the sets, and the logistics of touring around the country.
Filmed by production company Eyeworks over several months, episode one begins with the company’s cut-throat annual auditions – attended by hopefuls from all over the world.
"We’re thrilled the Royal New Zealand Ballet has been recognised and given a prime-time spot,” says RNZB Artistic Director Gary Harris.
“It’s nice to be able to give New Zealander’s an insight into what it takes to be a dancer – as you’ll see, it’s not always easy!”
The Secret Lives of Dancers begins on Tuesday 31 August at 8pm on TV3.
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Royal New Zealand BalletThe Royal New Zealand Ballet
The Royal New Zealand Ballet is a company of 32 dynamic dancers, performing an eclectic repertoire of outstanding dance, for national and international audiences, whilst continuing to build a style that is ultimately unique to this Company and Aotearoa, New Zealand.
The demands of our audience, particularly within New Zealand, mean that we present an eclectic repertoire of choreographic styles, from 19th century classics to 21st century contemporary works. Our aim is to present dance of outstanding quality.
We want to attract New Zealand and international dancers, choreographers and designers who will nurture and grow a company of international acclaim.
