The new visual identity expresses the energy of movement and the lively spirit of HIBC. “We want to emphasize the beauty and energy of ballet along with bold messages. That’s what ballet is; beauty and perfection combined with strong emotion and the power of expression”, describes visual designer Tessa Helle.
Photographer Ofer Amir captured four young dancers: Yimeng Sun, Benjamin Kuefler, Felipe Domingos and Erika Pastel. Yimeng, Benjamin and Felipe dance in the Finnish National Ballet and Erika recently graduated from the Ballet School of the Finnish National Opera and Ballet. She has been appointed to the Norwegian National Ballet 2 company. Ofer Amir was assisted by star dancer and choreographer Minna Tervamäki.
Inspired by the blooming wild dandelions all over Helsinki at the beginning of June, the dancers wear sunshine yellow that draws attention and pops out of the shades of grey in the background, representing the rock-solid organisation behind HIBC.
The HIBC is known as a well-organized competition. “We heard from former competitors that they really appreciate HIBC´s passionate atmosphere, benefits and the culture of winning and learning. The last four years have changed Helsinki into one of the most attractive cultural cities in Europe. This energetic combination creates the new Spirit of HIBC. Our mission is to make everybody a winner”, explains strategy director Marja-Liisa Pollari.
The president of the HIBC 2020 Jury is Madeleine Onne, the Artistic Director of the Finnish National Ballet. “HIBC will gather some of the most prominent leaders of ballet schools and companies from all over the world to participate in the 2020 Jury. With their experience in how to find the best talents I am sure we will all have a good experience together during the 9th HIBC", tells Madeleine Onne. HIBC is organized by the Helsinki International Ballet Competition Association. The chairman of the board is Jorma Uotinen and the deputy chairman is Minna Tervamäki. The application period will start 1 November and the selection will be primarily conducted by video auditioning. Ticket sales begin in autumn 2019 via the Finnish National Opera and Ballet.