50 Years On Their Toes

This documentary goes behind the scenes of the Royal NZ Ballet's production of Romeo and Juliet, as the company turns 50 — a milestone it nearly didn't make. British choreographer Chris Hampson and his cast battle nerves and last minute injuries, as they prepare the ballet for opening night at Wellington's St James Theatre. Interviews include former dancers and and ex-artistic director Harry Haythorne, who faced a financial black hole in the 1980s. Meanwhile veteran dancer Jon Trimmer and his partner Jacqui remember RNZB's DIY beginnings in the 1950s, under its "terrifying" but charismatic founder Poul Gnatt.

It was like a hydrogen bomb going off, I suppose. It was the most remarkable experience...Poul arrived on the scene and he brought with him the 'breath of Europe', and I don't think I've ever met anybody in my life quite as strong-willed and charismatic.

– Former Royal NZ Ballet dancer Rosalind Hollinrake on company founder Poul Gnatt

Key Cast & Crew

Rangimoana Taylor

Narrator

David Paul

Camera

Owen Ferrier-Kerr

Editor

Howard Taylor

Director, Additional Camera

Gary Scott

Producer

Jon Trimmer

Subject