[Dancer Introduction #12] Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 - Kanto Performance: A Triumphant Return of a Core Dancer from a Stage Art Combining Classical Tradition with New Zealand's Unique Nature and Culture!

## Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 - Kanto Performance / Dancer Introduction

Marty Co., Ltd. has announced that Takahiro Kusunoki, a Principal at the Royal New Zealand Ballet, will perform at the 'Ballet Ensemble Gala 2026 - Kanto Performance'.

### Profile of Takahiro Kusunoki

Born in Aichi, Japan. He began ballet in his early childhood.

After obtaining a scholarship to The Australian Ballet School at the 2013 Youth America Grand Prix, he began his studies at the school in 2014. After graduating with excellent results, he joined Queensland Ballet as a Young Artist in 2017 and was promoted to Company Artist in 2018.

In July of the same year, he joined the Royal New Zealand Ballet as an Artist, promoted to Soloist in 2020, and to Principal in 2023.

In addition to classical ballet masterpieces such as Giselle, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, The Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake, he has also played leading roles in contemporary works such as William Forsythe's "Artifact II", Wayne McGregor's "Infra", Twyla Tharp's "Waterbaby Bagatelles", and Christopher Wheeldon's "After the Rain".

### About the Royal New Zealand Ballet

Founded in 1953, it is New Zealand's leading national ballet company. It boasts a wide repertoire from classical to contemporary works and often stages original productions that reflect New Zealand's nature and culture. It has established an international reputation for its unique style that combines delicacy and dynamism.

It is extremely difficult and highly valuable for a Japanese dancer to succeed as a Principal in an overseas ballet company. Kusunoki has established a solid position on the international stage using not only reliable technique but also expressive power, stage presence, and communication skills.