In March 2016, British choreographer Liam Scarlett spent a week with Queensland Ballet as they rehearsed his delectable A Midsummer Night’s Dream – and creative sparks of the best kind flew.

A co-production between New Zealand Ballet (where it premiered) and QB, the beautiful, touching, genuinely funny ballet had critics raving and was a runaway hit with audiences.

^{Liam Scarlett rehearsing. Photo © Eduardo Vieira}

The dancers were smitten by the experience too, as was QB Artistic Director Li Cunxin, who subsequently invited the highly sought-after 30-year old choreographer to join him as Artistic Associate. In a coup for QB, Scarlett agreed. He will also continue in his role as Artist in Residence at The Royal Ballet in London.

“He loved working with our dancers and we loved working with him. It was one of those matches made in heaven,” says principal artist Clare Morehen, who remembers Scarlett from The Royal Ballet School where they both trained.

“Obviously, it’s hard to be resident at two different companies across the world from each other but it’s a testament to Li and the Company that Liam wants to work with us. I think we’re super lucky...