“Full of blood and heart” is how artistic director Li Cunxin describes the work, as choreographed by the legendary English dancer Sir Kenneth Macmillan in 1965.

“He was one of the most daring, most innovative, most creative choreographers, who projected realism,” Li said.

“He wasn’t afraid to express languages or stories through real life movements that ordinary people can really relate to, understand and appreciate.”

Sir Kenneth’s widow Deborah was born in Boonah, but patriotism didn’t stop her initially believing the QB company was too small to stage his version of the tragic love story.

“I don’t just grant rights because of where I was born,” she said on Thursday.

But after reassurances from Li she agreed, and has found rehearsals inspiring.

“I think the company is stunning, and I think the keen, eager hunger to do these roles has shone through in every rehearsal,” Lady Macmillan said.

“We know exactly what we’re going to get ... it’s very exciting and I’m thrilled.”

With assistance from the state government’s Superstar Fund, international ballet dancers Tamara Rojo, Steven McRae and Cuban Carlos Acosta have been brought to Brisbane for the exclusive season.

They will partner Queensland Ballet principles in the leading roles.

Sydney-born McRae, a principal with the Royal Ballet, said audiences should expect an epic performance.

“I think in Australian terms this is like the State of Origin of ballet,” he said.

“The production has absolutely everything ... it’s so athletic, it’s a killer to get through, it’s one of the toughest roles for a man to do.”

Known as “The Spanish Ballerina”, Tamara Rojo said her physical task was not as great, but conveying the heartbreak of the couple’s unhappy end made up for it.

“It’s a dramatic journey that you have to carry on your own really ... you have to take Juliet from a little girl who knows nothing to a woman who decides to die for love,” she said.

“That journey of growing up, and loss of innocence, is quite a difficult emotional task to do.”

Li said he first saw Romeo and Juliet telecast live not long after arriving in America from China, and had wanted to perform it ever since.

“It was one of the items on my bucket list to be ticked off, but unfortunately I didn’t have the privilege to do so,” he said.

“So I’m so thrilled to bring this privilege to my dancers.”

Romeo and Juliet opens on Friday night at the Lyric Theatre. Tamara Rojo will guest star on June 27 and 28; Steven McRae on July 2 and 4, and Carlos Acosta on July 3 and 5. Tickets $35-$130 available online.