The Yurali Ensemble Ballet is a free school holiday ballet program that nurtures and empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people aged 7–18 through the art of ballet. The ensemble welcomes dancers of all experience levels, from those taking their first steps to seasoned performers seeking deeper cultural and creative connection.

Yurali, meaning Eucalyptus Blossom in Wiradjuri, reflects the shape of a tutu and symbolises the blossoming of identity, creativity and community through movement.

Participants learn from The ELLA Foundation’s founder, Ella Havelka, alongside leading First Nations artists and mentors. Across our past three workshops, students have had the opportunity to learn from and be mentored by an incredible group of artists, including Amy Flannery, Olivia Scott, Erica Dixon, Jacob Harrap, Olivia Kirkman, Kitana Price and Aurielle Smith.

The program is proudly supported by Create NSW, Creative Australia, and The ELLA Foundation’s generous donors and sponsors.

Photography and videography by Noni Carrol