Great memories of past Tutus on Tour productions mean Abigail Boyle is perfect in the role of ballet mistress for this year’s tour, she tells Rebecca Fox.
As one of the senior members of the Royal New Zealand Ballet, Abigail Boyle has danced in a few Tutus on Tour.
So when she was asked if she would take on a new challenge as ballet mistress for this year's tour, she was honoured.
''It's an honour to prepare these newer dancers for this type of format.
''I have incredibly fond memories of dancing a Tutus tour. It was a huge highlight of my career.''
While the format of the Tutus tours has changed since then, they still visit regional centres and perform short pieces from a variety of ballets.
This year the tour will take 10 dancers to seven regional centres, with the performances tailor-made for smaller venues and audience members of all ages.
''I'm glad they have brought it back. It's imperative that all New Zealanders get to see their dancers, to see their national ballet.''
In Oamaru, the company will also hold Ballet in a Box, giving schoolchildren the chance to observe the dancers' daily warm-up, watching them perform brief works, and then exploring their world through a question-and-answer session.
''The kids love it. It is a good education for future ticket buyers and dancers - it is a win-win.''
As they are performing in Queenstown during the weekend, the public can watch the dancers prepare on stage earlier in the day.
Her role as ballet mistress is to coach and prepare the dancers for the smaller and varied venues.
''I've been there and you have to adapt. Each dance is different. I love the intimacy of small venues.''
It is also a bonus to be able to show the dancers different parts of New Zealand.
''They're stoked to be going to Queenstown and they've got a day off there.''
The troupe will be performing a mix of short pieces from classical ballets such as Le Corsaire, Sleeping Beauty and the Dying Swan and modern works such as Aura, Black and Cacti.
''It's a really nice taster. There will be tutus, a lot of sparkle and tiaras and then there is the very contemporary Black and the dying swan is beautiful.''
One of the bonuses for the dancers taking part is being able to perform parts they might not usually get a chance to do, such as a grand pas de deux and gala pieces.
''It's extra dance and hopefully they are excited about it.''
The audience feedback from these shows is always so rewarding, as for many small towns having the RNZB there warranted a night out and a good vibe, she said.
''Last year, when Nelson went on sale, it sold out in 24 hours.''
She loved the ''buzz'' she got from the fast turnaround of the shows.
It is also an exciting time for Boyle, who is also dancing in the RNZB's season of Three by Ekman.
In Boyle's 12th year with the company, the new role has meant additional work.
''I'm in a position in my career where I can step up and take on more roles of responsibility with the other dancers.''
Transition from dancer to mistress on a regular basis has been quite smooth.
''I think they trust I've got the knowledge and experience.''
It had taken a little adjustment from her perspective as well, such as getting used to facing away from the mirror rather than into it.
''I feel I've got the support of my colleagues.''
She is also enjoying learning new skills as part of the new role.
To see
Tutus on Tour, Royal New Zealand Ballet, Memorial Centre, Queenstown, Sunday, and Opera House, Oamaru, Tuesday (Ballet in a Box for local schools will take place earlier in the day).
