Leading Cecchetti Ballet Australia into the Future

By Danielle Brown

Published in Print March 2025 order now!

Anne Butler, Chair of Cecchetti Ballet Australia, began her ballet training under Mr. Athol Willoughby O.A.M in 1965. Encouraged by her ballet-loving mother, she immersed herself in the arts from an early age. She completed all Cecchetti examinations, studied modern dance, and discovered a passion for choreography, debuting her first work in 1974. Since 1981, Anne has held numerous roles within Cecchetti Ballet Australia, including Senior Examiner, Life Member, and Australian Representative of Cecchetti International Ballet, before becoming Chair. Her dedication continues to inspire the ballet world.

Cecchetti Ballet Australia stands as a beacon of excellence in classical ballet training, distinguishing itself through a structured syllabus and a commitment to evolving dance education. Anne Butler, Chair of Cecchetti Ballet Australia, highlights what sets the method apart from other training styles: “The Cecchetti method is unique. It follows the theoretical teaching methods of one of the world’s most acclaimed teachers of his time, Enrico Cecchetti. Agrippina Vaganova, the creator of the Vaganova ballet method in Russia, was a student of Cecchetti and was influenced by his methodology. Cecchetti taught some of the greatest dancers of the Diaghilev era, including Anna Pavlova, Tamara Karsavina, and Nijinsky. His approach to teaching and developing artistry in dancers was acknowledged by Dame Marie Rambert and Dame Ninette de Valois, founders of British Ballet.”

The Cecchetti method stands out for its emphasis on anatomical awareness and technical precision. As Butler explains, “The Cecchetti method is considered to have a more ‘scientific’ approach to ballet training. Cecchetti focused on anatomical awareness, understanding how each part of the body works together to create a stable dancer. This awareness results in strong dancers known for their movement quality and technical abilities. The system also aligns with contemporary ballet, which challenges dancers to use their bodies in ways affiliated with modern dance. The origins of contemporary ballet can be traced back to Serge Diaghilev, with whom Cecchetti worked in the Ballets Russes. As ballet master, Cecchetti played a pivotal role in developing new standards for choreography and technique.”

The Cecchetti syllabus is carefully structured to provide a balanced training program, with each grade progressively building senior-level skills. It includes two streams for both recreational and vocational dance students, promoting a love for dance. Leading teacher training courses maintain the Cecchetti method’s principles while incorporating studies in classical theatrical dancing. Additionally, Cecchetti Ballet Australia offers the CUA40320 Certificate in Dance Teaching and Management in partnership with Empowerdance RTO: 40397.

For dancers transitioning from pre-professional training into careers, Cecchetti provides an elite level of preparation. “The major syllabi and the Enrico Cecchetti Diploma are set at the highest levels of training. Cecchetti taught professional dancers, incorporating classical repertoire such as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and Paquita into classwork. This foundation offers vocational dancers both technical and artistic support,” Butler states.

Beyond training, Cecchetti Ballet Australia provides numerous performance awards and scholarships, offering dancers opportunities at state, national, and international levels. Scholars programs, led by industry professionals, enhance both artistic and technical proficiency. The triennial Cecchetti International Classical Ballet competition and the biannual Valrene Tweedie Scholarship, valued at $10,000, have supported many dancers in pursuing careers both in Australia and overseas.

Cecchetti Ballet Australia is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in ballet education through extensive professional development. The organisation operates both nationally and internationally, with branches in New Zealand, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Taiwan, and affiliations with seven major countries through Cecchetti International Classical Ballet. To ensure quality training, Cecchetti Ballet Australia provides state teacher refresher courses, conventions, and conferences featuring national and international guest presenters covering essential topics such as syllabi, dance medicine, injury prevention, wellness, history, choreography, and business practices. Teachers also benefit from masterclasses, boys’ programs, and seasonal schools conducted by leading industry professionals, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to excellence in dance education.

Maintaining classical technique while embracing contemporary movement and injury prevention is at the heart of Cecchetti’s evolution. “Cecchetti himself worked with one of the most avant-garde companies of the 20th century, the Ballets Russes. His method was sought after by contemporary dancers, including Paul Taylor in New York. Our major level medal awards now introduce contemporary solos, and our teacher training includes expert-led injury prevention workshops,” Butler shares.

Artistic expression is deeply ingrained in Cecchetti’s philosophy. “Performance is the nucleus of his training approach. Artistry and performance quality have always been fundamental to the syllabi and examination criteria. Artistry is rooted in truth and sincerity, allowing dancers to develop their unique voices. As Cecchetti himself said, ‘The artist must possess not only technical ability but also an artistic soul,’” Butler explains.

Recognising the increasing demands of professional dance, Cecchetti Ballet Australia ensures a holistic approach to training. “The Cecchetti method’s anatomical awareness supports strong technical foundations while promoting dancer well-being. Teacher refresher courses and conventions include experts in dance medicine and wellness, ensuring our training remains relevant and up to date,” Butler affirms.

Cecchetti Ballet Australia is committed to providing opportunities for all dancers, including those in regional areas. As a not-for-profit organisation, it is governed by a National Council comprising teachers appointed by state members. The Council meets quarterly to oversee administration, supported by an examining body and State Committees. The Annual Conference serves as a platform for knowledge exchange among teachers nationwide. To ensure accessibility, a special fund has been established to assist teachers from remote areas in attending conferences, reinforcing Cecchetti Ballet Australia’s dedication to inclusivity in dance education.
For students aged 15 and above pursuing a professional career, Butler offers guidance: “You have chosen a wonderful career and an exceptional training pathway through the Cecchetti method. The major ‘Dancer Category’ levels, including Advanced 1 and 2 and the Enrico Cecchetti Diploma, will provide a solid technical foundation, deep musicality, and an appreciation for classical ballet heritage. Dedication to learning is key, as the great master himself advocated.”

Cecchetti Ballet Australia continues to evolve, ensuring its training remains relevant to the global dance industry. Butler envisions a future of progressive adaptation: “If Cecchetti were alive today, he would have evolved his method. He was a progressive thinker who embraced new artistic movements. With advances in understanding the human body, we continue to refine our training. We have launched a new pointe work training program with an examination component tailored to individual student needs. Our examiners’ professional development discussions focus on enhancing inclusivity in various areas.”

With its rich legacy and forward-thinking approach, Cecchetti Ballet Australia remains at the forefront of classical ballet training, equipping dancers and teachers with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.