In November and December 2014, one of our physiotherapists Peta travelled to Europe to get her physio fix for all things ballet. She travelled as physio with dancers from the Northern Territory's Ballet Company, taking the opportunity to connect with the health teams of various European dance companies and full-time dance schools.
First stop: Helsinki, Finland, where Peta spent a week alongside physiotherapist Jarmo Ahonen, and the physio team of the Finnish National Opera. Here she also had the opportunity to meet Finnish Prime Minister Alexander Stubb, which was one of the highlights of the week.
On to London, where Peta visited the Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, the London Contemporary Dance School, and Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. She was warmly welcomed by all medical teams who were all very happy to share their experiences, show off their facilities, and allow plenty of time for observation and questions. The dancers were also all very welcoming and friendly. Peta was lucky enough to watch intimate rehearsals and creative processes, as well as full performances at some of London's most beautiful theatres.
Finally Paris, the icing on the ballet cake, to see the Paris Opera Ballet at the opulent Palais Garnier Opera House. There was also the special opportunity to observe the exceptional students of the Paris Opera Ballet School demonstrating their year's work. Peta managed to squeeze in a few ballet classes of her own at the L'Académie Américaine de Danse de Paris. Another amazing opportunity was participating in a Master Class taught by current Paris National Opera Ballet teacher Andrey Klemm.
A big thank you to Duprada Dance Company for the opportunity to travel with their dancers and share in such a wonderful experience.
