Queensland Ballet legend, Li Cunxin AO, will be honoured with the Keys to the City to recognise his outstanding contribution to Brisbane.
Brisbane Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner said Li (pictured) had left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s arts scene and his achievements would be celebrated at a ceremony later this month.
“Li has extended the dignity, grace and elegance of ballet into every aspect of his life,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Like me, I’m sure many people were saddened to hear of Li’s retirement after 11 years at the helm of Queensland Ballet.
“On behalf of Brisbane, I feel it’s appropriate to acknowledge the talent, passion and vision that has enriched our creative scene and inspired generations of dancers.”
Among his long list of national and international achievements, Li has been pivotal in the growth of the Queensland Ballet, doubling the ensemble, creating a world-class Academy at Kelvin Grove State College and a home for ballet and the arts at the Thomas Dixon Centre in West End.
“For many years, we’ve enjoyed the great privilege of witnessing Li’s achievements come to life both on and off the stage,” Cr Schrinner said.
“The Keys to the City are awarded to those who embody the ideals of Brisbane, and few people have had such a significant and enduring impact on Brisbane’s art scene.
“I can’t think of a more worthy recipient of the Keys to the City.”
“As the curtain closes on this chapter of his life, I thank Li for a lifetime of artistic excellence. It has been a true privilege to watch.”
The Keys to the City are awarded to acknowledge the achievement or contribution of an individual or organisation in furthering the ideals of the city.
Dating back to medieval times when cities were enclosed by walls, the symbolic gesture can be performed to recognise outstanding achievement in sport, community, or humanitarian work by a Brisbane resident at an international or national level.
Li Cunxin thanked Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner for honouring him with the title of the 55th recipient of the Keys to the City.
“I’m incredibly proud to accept the city’s highest honour from Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner,” Li Cunxin said.
“I have devoted so much of my life to Brisbane and Australia’s arts scene and it’s truly special to have this recognised with this incredible honour.
“I am truly grateful. It’s a job that brought me decades of joy and fulfilment, and the last 11 years at Queensland Ballet represents one of the most rewarding chapters of my life.
“To have my life’s work acknowledged with the Keys to the City, the City which my family and I love, it’s a wonderful gesture and one I will always cherish,” he said.
