Synopsis by Christopher Wheeldon and Joby Talbot based on an original idea by Alexander Wise and Christopher Wheeldon
Christopher Wheeldon, choreography
Berkeley Symphony Orchestra
Joby Talbot, composer
Jean-Marc Puissant, stage and costume design
Jon Goldman, lighting design
David Bergman, video design
Inspired by the legacy and lore of one of literature’s most extraordinary minds, Christopher Wheeldon’s visionary ballet blends awe-inspiring choreography with the story of Oscar Wilde. Oscar explores themes of romance, sacrifice, and forbidden love, weaving elements of Wilde’s biography together with references to his timeless stories and characters. Admired for both its artistic vigor and the emotional nuance of its programs, The Australian Ballet returns to Berkeley for the first time since the company’s memorable performances of Swan Lake more than a decade ago. Joby Talbot’s lush orchestral score is performed live by the Berkeley Symphony Orchestra, and designer Jean-Marc Puissant’s intricate set and costume designs complete this thrilling production.
“A trailblazing masterpiece, rich with thought-provoking meaning, stirring emotion, unashamed hedonism, and breathtaking wonderment.”—Australian Arts Review
This event is part of Cal Performances’ Illuminations: “Innocence & Experience” programming for the 2026–27 season.
Lead Sponsor: Anonymous
Major Support: Beth DeAtley; Rockridge Market Hall
Tour Partners of The Australian Ballet: Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer and Macquarie Group. Oscar has been generously funded by Lady Potter AC CMRI and The David Hallberg Fund for Artistic Aspiration, and The Robert and Elizabeth Albert Music Fund. We also extend our sincere thanks to the contributors of the International Touring Fund and our US Tour supporters, whose generosity has made this landmark tour possible.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.
Joby Talbot, composer; published by Chester Music Ltd.
Christopher Wheeldon’s Oscar includes extracts from Neil McKenna’s book, The Secret Life of Oscar Wilde, copyright Neil McKenna, with kind permission from the author.
World premiere September 13, 2024, Regent Theatre, Melbourne, The Australian Ballet.
Program notes will be available approximately one week before the performance.
Fri, Sep 25, 7:30pm
Sat, Sep 26, 1pm & 7:30pm
Sun, Sep 27, 3pm
There is a $20 service charge on all subscription orders, and a $15 per order service charge on ticket purchases made by phone or online that are not part of a subscription package. There is no fee for tickets purchased in person at the Zellerbach Hall Ticket Office unless they are part of a subscription.
Parking Alert
Parking may be a problem on campus for Sep 25 performance due to a Cal Football game.
Most University parking lots will be reserved for patrons and city-owned lots may have a limited number of spots available. We advise you to arrive early and to consider alternative transportation.
Please see our Parking Alert section for more information.
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2026–27 Season Guides
Some of you want your mind blown. Some want your heart broken. Some want to see a legend before they stop touring. Whatever brings you through those doors, we’ve built a guide for it. Explore the six patron guides below to find the performances that were made for you!
Fri, Sep 25, 7:30pm
Sat, Sep 26, 1pm & 7:30pm
Sun, Sep 27, 3pm
There is a $20 service charge on all subscription orders, and a $15 per order service charge on ticket purchases made by phone or online that are not part of a subscription package. There is no fee for tickets purchased in person at the Zellerbach Hall Ticket Office unless they are part of a subscription.
2026–27 Season Subscriptions go on sale noon May 5
Single tickets for 2026–27 Season events go on sale at noon Aug 11
