The past two years have been a nightmare for performing arts companies. Many were forced off the stage, often with little warning, putting artists out of work and leaving seasons in tatters. In the states that applied the most stringent border restrictions there were fewer dark nights in theatres but uncertainty and disappointment were felt everywhere.

The situation looks more optimistic for 2022 given the strong acceptance of vaccination. Some restrictions, such as the wearing of masks in theatres and proof of vaccination, may however stay in place for some time. Companies want to stay open and will do everything in their power to do so.

And now to the good news around the country in opera and dance for 2022. Companies are still standing, they are raring to go and they have much to celebrate. There’s a slew of milestones, chief among them West Australian Ballet’s 70th anniversary and The Australian Ballet’s 60th. WAB artistic director Aurélien Scannella will have been at the helm for...