I wrote a similar thing on another message board, but for those who don't double over...<P>The latest 'Friends of the Australian Ballet Bulletin' reads that Geon Van der Wyst is taking up a Principal artist role with the national Ballet of Canada, Jane Finnie and Shane Placentino are also leaving (senior artists and leading soloist). I suppose for many of them, they have spent their whole career in Australia, with the Aus ballet and feel its time to explore other options. Most dancers take a stint away from the company, but come back later... (yes, i'm aware this is not an exclusive australian ballet situation, I'm just saying...). <P>However I don't have the inside story... My speculation is just that.. <BR>As for Lawsons article... I think it should be read with a grain of salt. Though it is food for thought...<P> Actually, there is a line(paraphrased) "Van Der Wyst was unhappy Ross wouldn't promote him" - sorry, but I think the reason for that is that Geon is the most overrated dancer and didn't deserve half of the roles he got...- I could get very nasty, but I'll Try Not To. And, in my opinion, Ross Has promoted dancers -Just look at 'the rank rocket' Madeleine Eastoe and Nicole Rhodes...<BR>However, I don't think this signals a great instability among the top ranks...<P>The BIG news is Justine Summers' retirement, but I think it was inevitable. Her reason (arthritis in her foot) is a problem that has plagued her for a long time and kept her out for a long time a few years ago. That said she will be sorely missed.<P>Of course, as an East sider, i'll contact my contacts and see what i can dig up.

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