Announcing the news, Harlequin's group marketing manager, Mark Rasmussen said, "The innovative partnership brought together the commitment of an enlightened manufacturer with an artistic dance company, both driven by an obsession with excellence in their respective fields."
"Dance floors are where dancers perform and rehearse and indeed spend much of their working lives. As a manufacturer, it is our aim to provide floors and dance surfaces which inspire confidence in dancers to fully explore their artistic creativity without any fear of slipping, falls or even longer term injury."
Melbourne City Ballet is described as "The city's newest and most exciting Neoclassical Company. A dance company based on new ideas; where independent dancers and choreographers can come together to work on and develop neoclassical movement in Australia". Michael Pappalardo, Melbourne City Ballet's artistic director said, "We are very excited here at MCB to launch our new partnership with Harlequin."
Formed as recently as 2013, Melbourne City Ballet was Michael Pappalardo's response to what he perceived as "a distinct lack of support for independent professional dancers and choreographers within the Melbourne arts scene". With a particular focus on neoclassical works, MCB boasts a diverse repertoire of new neoclassical works but also delivers traditional classical repertoire."
Melbourne City Ballet seeks to change the perceptions associated with independent neoclassical artists and promote the quality of the work of these professionals. The company looks to develop the creativity and talent of performing artists while ensuring that the arts remain financially accessible to the community.
Harlequin Floors recently announced the opening of a company office in Australia and is also now in its third year of sponsorship of the Australian Dance Awards. The partnership with MCB is yet another important development in Harlequin's involvement and support for the Australian dance community.
(Jim Evans)
