Chinese-Australian ballet dancer, Li Cunxin, became a household name when he published his autobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, and it became a feature film. Now 60 years of age and the artistic director of the Queensland Ballet, Cunxin shows that he has lost none of his balletic grace in a commercial for APIA, directed by Photoplay’s Jasmin Tarasin and created by Leo Burnett Sydney, which has held the account since 2018.
“Working with Li was an extraordinary experience. Knowing his story as Mao’s last dancer it was so wonderful to see how full of life he is and full of love for the craft of Ballet. He is still an incredible dancer and was very fun company. Absolute joy,” Tarasin stated.
The campaign’s stills were shot by Photoplay’s Chris Budgeon as well.
Credits:
Agency: Leo Burnett Sydney
Executive Creative Director: Andy Ferguson
Creative Group Head: Dave Varney
Senior Creative: Brad Grey
Agency Producer: Brooke Mather
Production Company: Photoplay Films
Director: Jasmin Tarasin
Executive Producer: Oliver Lawrance
Producer: Bonnie Fay
DOP: Christopher Miles
Art Director: Jen Waters
Editor: Gaby Muir
Colourist: Yanni Kronenberg
Post-Production: Alt VFX & The Editors
Photographer: Chris Budgeon
