My Journey to the Charles Lisner Circle

Pas Magazine Issue 11

My Journey to the Charles Lisner Circle

"My interest in the Arts began many years ago as a teenager in my country of birth, Canada. I grew up in a small town in Manitoba who annually held an arts festival and as a student participated as part of school groups.

Later, while studying Education, my interest in the Arts was extended as I had the opportunity to usher at live theatre venues in Winnipeg. My university degree was a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Drama. I began to not enjoy live theatre as I became so critical, being an expert with my studies, but fortunately found the Royal Winnipeg Ballet which I became infatuated with. I enjoyed it for its beauty and capability to move me emotionally, but I didn’t want to know any of the background/techniques of ballet or dancing. Through my teaching, I did however become involved with folk dancing. 

When I migrated to Brisbane in 1975, I became an audience member of Queensland Ballet. I later joined ‘The Queensland Ballet Friends’ for the social side of ballet and soon became involved with the committee who helped raise funds through various activities as well as help cater Opening Nights and other functions. I stepped back from my involvement in the Friends for a number of years and have in the past few years again become a QB Friend member in honour of the committee legacy.

Queensland Ballet over the years has given me much joy through taking me away from the humdrum of daily life and allowing me to experience the ‘magic’ on the stage. This, over the years made me realise that for this to continue, not only for me but for future generations, my contribution through a legacy would be of assistance. I hope that my legacy will help Queensland Ballet to continue their work with young dancers in both the Academy and the Company.

As a lover of the Arts and Queensland Ballet in particular, may I suggest that you leave a legacy in your will to Queensland Ballet so that future generations may enjoy the experience of observing the Company as you do. By becoming part of the Charles Lisner Circle, you will meet like-minded people"

- Peter Myska, Charles Lisner Circle member


Your story is our story.

Our vision is to continue to share the transformative magic of dance with future generations to enjoy our artistically vibrant and meaningful artform. Queensland Ballet is built on the foundation of the many lifetimes of passionate people who believe in the value and ability of ballet to enrich lives.

If ballet has brought you great joy in life, have you considered leaving a gift for Queensland Ballet in your will? We warmly welcome the opportunity to start a conversation with you, in confidence about your journey and your role in Queensland Ballet’s history. Your bequest is a powerful and lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy the beauty and wonder of ballet in Queensland.

Please call Tonia Looker, Foundation Manager - Philanthropy and Bequests, on 07 3013 6660 or email foundation@queenslandballet.com.au

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We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and perform. Long before we performed on this land, it played host to the dance expression of our First Peoples. We pay our respects to their Elders — past, present and emerging — and acknowledge the valuable contribution they have made and continue to make to the cultural landscape of this country.

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