After an absence of three and a half years, Giselle, the most sublime of all romantic ballets, returns to the stage of Joburg Theatre when Joburg Ballet presents a season of ten performances of the beloved classic from Friday 4 to Sunday 13 October in association with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra.

A heartrending story of love so powerful it reaches from beyond the grave, the ballet’s exquisite dancing lays bare a tale of passion, betrayal and forgiveness with one of the greatest of all ballerina roles at its centre.

Joburg Ballet dancers sharing the title role during the season of Giselle are Shannon Glover, Claudia Monja and Monike Cristina who will be joined by French guest artist Anaïs Chalendard who made an acclaimed SA debut earlier this year in Joburg Ballet’s The Sleeping Beauty.

In the leading role of Albrecht, audiences will see Revil Yon (with Glover), Leusson Muniz (with both Monja and Chalendard) and Ruan Galdino (with Cristina).

In addition to the two leading roles of Giselle and Albrecht, the ballet also provides a showcase for dancers in other roles including a massed corps de ballet which appears in the ghostly second act to chilling effect.

Giselle will be staged by Joburg Ballet’s artistic director Iain MacDonald and ballet mistress Lauren Slade while Australian-based SA ballet luminary, former prima ballerina and artistic director Dawn Weller will rehearse and coach the dancers in the leading roles.

Giselle opens at Joburg Theatre on Friday 4 October for ten performances, ending on Sunday 13 October. The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra will play for all performances except Wednesday 9 October at 11:00, which will be to a recorded score to facilitate filming of Giselle for release on DVD.

Joburg Ballet offers its usual range of affordable ticket options for Giselle, including a 30%-off Early Bird Special (valid until 4 August), 50%-off on Opening Night, two budget-priced Morning Matinees with all seats just R110, and discounts for pensioners and groups.

Joburg Ballet’s Giselle

Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein

Friday 4 Oct at 19:30 – Half Price: R110, R152, R207, R226, R262

Saturday 5 October, Friday 11 October, Saturday 12 October at 19:30;

Saturday 5 October, Sunday 6 October, Saturday 12 October, Sunday 13 October at 15:00

Standard Prices: R220, R303, R413, R451, R523

Tuesday 8 October & Wednesday 9 October at 11:00

All tickets R110 (Wed 9 Oct at 11:00 to recorded music)

Tickets At Joburg Theatre Box Office; or tel. 0861 670 670.

The post Joburg Ballet's Giselle appeared first on Stage and Screen.

After a triumphant début season at The Teatro, Montecasino in December, Joburg Ballet returns to the popular venue with its sparkling production of Snow White – The Ballet from Thursday 30 May to Sunday 2 June, for five performances only.

Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairytale of a girl whose beauty drives an evil queen to vengeance, Joburg Ballet’s artistic director Iain MacDonald has choreographed a lyrical ballet, with music by the great Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich, which has all the hallmarks audiences expect from the company: superb dancing, captivating theatre and enchanting settings.

The casting for Snow White – The Ballet will feature Nicole Ferreira-Dill and Shana Dewey alternating in the title role, and Leusson Muniz and Ruan Galdino alternating as the Prince. Ferreira-Dill and Muniz dance on Thursday 30 May at 20:00, Saturday 1 June at 14:00, and Sunday 2 June at 15:00; Dewey and Galdino dance on Friday 31 May at 20:00 and Saturday 1 June at 20:00.

On Saturday 18 May from 10:00 to 13:00 at the Joburg Ballet studios at Joburg Theatre, the ballet company offers a glimpse into its working life as the dancers prepare for Snow White – The Ballet. The public has the chance to watch a ballet class, meet the creative team and see the company rehearse extracts from the ballet. Tickets are R120 and include refreshments. Booking is via Edgar Moagi on 011-877 6898 or email at edgar@joburgballet.com.

Snow White – The Ballet

The Teatro at Montecasino

Dates and Show Times:

Thursday 30 May at 20:00

Friday 31 May at 20:00

Saturday 1 June at 14:00

Saturday 1 June at 20:00

Sunday 2 June at 15:00

R150, R250, R350, R450

Buy Tickets for Johannesburg here:

The post Snow White – The Ballet appeared first on Stage and Screen.

By: David Simmons

2018 has been a very busy year for Joburg Ballet. They have skilfully presented audiences with world class offerings, not forgetting a company of dedicated artists each embracing their own unique talents. Each production, whether a classical representation or modern enactment, has set a very high standard for dance in this country. The level of flair and expertise of every dancer has been admirable and consistent throughout, making the art of ballet all the more comfortable to appreciate.

With twelve months of the year almost through, it’s always fascinating to revisit past productions of the season, and how the evolution of every single showcase has been delivered with effortlessness and ease. December sees the company bring Cinderella to the Teatro at Montecasino and one can certainly reveal that the best has been left for last!

Cinderella couldn’t have come at a better time. In fact, it’s a production that embodies the true light-heartedness and festivity of what this time of the year brings. It’s a celebration of new beginnings and the start of something special.

Cinderella’s story is one we have all heard before. It’s a magical tale of the outcast who rises up to achieve greatness, but at the same time has to endure various obstacles on a very cobbled and uncertain path. It’s an appropriate story line especially for young children and adults alike, wanting a little magic and sparkle in their lives. Themes of courage and trusting your own convictions ring true to this staging, making for a glittering viewing.

Our female lead in question, played by the always elegant and poised Shannon Glover, brings a very whimsical feel to her role. Glover has given us a very dignified Cinderella, one who doesn’t need introduction, but who gracefully progresses on her quest to happiness.

Even in her tattered clothes and ruffled hair she is a marvel to watch, each step and movement as light and airy as her good-natured character. Her only solace are the mice she has befriended, and together they dance and amuse themselves in the dusty cinder filled kitchen they call home.

No story line is complete without our resident rival, and we are subtly introduced to Cinderella’s step Mother portrayed by Kitty Phetla, as always, a massive presence on stage. Phetla is mesmerising in her rendition, transfixing the attention of the audience to her fluid-like moves and capabilities as a senior soloist.

Cinderella’s two ridiculously slapstick stepsisters, Louise and Carla played by Chase Bosch and Keke Chele respectively,  add huge amounts of comic relief to the show. They bring a touch of pantomime maddens to their roles and take full advantage of the slick and fast paced choreography. Their rollicking performances are filled with huge amounts of laugher, and with the silly season in full motion their dramatics are very much welcomed.

Claudia Monja gives a dazzling performance as The Fairy Godmother and projects a collected serenity in some of the most beautiful solo renditions. Monya as always is polished and elegant, an apparition like vision who appears and then disappears in memorable sequences.

This rages to riches tale wouldn’t be complete without a Prince and a Ball and the usual amounts of frivolity that come with it. Ruan Galdino provides a charismatic and noble energy as Prince Charming. He fits the role perfectly and is in-tune with the regal effects of his character. Together with Glover, they both impressively transport us to an imperial backdrop of grace and refinement. The exquisite dance scenes at the ball will give you reason to see this production again and credit needs to be given to the entire company who give this ballet a strengthened bond.

As the story goes, the enchantment of the ball and the prince’s affection comes to an end and when the clock strikes twelve nothing is as it was, and Cinderella is back to where she started. However, with the help of a glass slipper, a touch of make-believe and bucket loads of fairy dust she gets the happy ending she so deserves.

This full-length ballet in two acts is choreographed by Artistic Director Iain Macdonald who has smoothly transported us into a world of fantasy. The sets and backdrops are beautiful and music from Johann Strauss adds the most wonderful festive element to an already sumptuous offering. Together with elegant costumes and romantic lightening, Joburg ballet has undoubtedly cast a magical spell over theatre goers and ballet enthusiasts alike.

Cinderella will be running at the Teatro at Montecasino until the 23rd of December 2018. Tickets are available at Computicket or at the theatre box office.

Photos: Bill Zurich and Lauge Sorensen

The post Review: Joburg Ballet's Cinderella appeared first on Stage and Screen.

With thanks to Joburg Ballet, we are giving away a Double ticket to this season’s Opening night, on Friday, 14 December 2018 at 19:30, at the Teatro in Montecasino.

A dazzling night, a glittering ball, something wonderful is bound to happen when the ultimate fairytale , Joburg Ballet’s production of Cinderella, comes to The Teatro at Montecasino from 14 to 23 December 2018. Marking the company’s first major season at the highly popular venue, Cinderella offers an unmissable chance for Teatro audiences to enjoy Joburg’s world-class ballet company as it expands its reach across the city.

Just enter below:

Joburg Ballet’s Cinderella Competition is now closed.

Please Note:

1. Competition Closes on Wednesday, 12 December 2018.
2. Tickets are only valid for the specified dates and performance times.
3. Seat allocations are up to the discretion of the promoters.
4. Tickets may not be upgraded, or exchanged for cash, or for alternate performances.
5. The prize comprises of two tickets per prize winner.
6. No-Shows will not receive replacement tickets.
7. By entering this competition, the participant agrees to the terms and conditions.
8. Prizes does not include accommodation and / or travel to and from the event.
9. Winners will be notified by mail.
10. One Entry per Email Address will be entered into the draw.

The post Win Tickets to Joburg Ballet's Cinderella appeared first on Stage and Screen.

A dazzling night, a glittering ball, something wonderful is bound to happen when the ultimate fairytale , Joburg Ballet’s production of Cinderella, comes to The Teatro at Montecasino from 14 to 23 December 2018. Marking the company’s first major season at the highly popular venue, Cinderella offers an unmissable chance for Teatro audiences to enjoy Joburg’s world-class ballet company as it expands its reach across the city.

Choreographed by Joburg Ballet’s artistic director Iain MacDonald in 2013, Cinderella will waltz across The Teatro stage with Johann Strauss’s champagne-infused melodies providing the perfect musical setting for the ultimate rags-to-riches tale.Andrew Botha’s glittering designs frame the action and the full company will light up the theatre in a family-friendly production brimming with charm and magic.

You can also experience a dancer’s working day with Joburg Ballet as the company prepares for Cinderella at their next Open Day on Sunday, 2 December. Watch daily class, meet the creative team and see the full company rehearse extracts from the ballet in their studios at Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein from 10am – 1pm.  Enquire with edgar@joburgballet.com.

Cinderella

The Teatro at Montecasino, Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways

Performances:

Friday 14 December at 19:30

Saturday 15 December at 15:00

Sunday 16 December 14:00

Wednesday 19 December at 15:00

Thursday 20 December at 15:00

Friday 21 December at 19:30

Saturday 22 December at 15:00

Sunday 23 December at 14:00

Tickets: 

R150, R250, R350, R450 via Computicket on 0861 915 8000 / www.computicket.com

The post Cinderella at the Teatro appeared first on Stage and Screen.

by David Simmons

In the wonderful make-believe world of Ballet, stories of love, romance and friendship come to life with the powerful and somewhat eloquent energy of dance at its core. For a sparkling October showcase, the company from Joburg Ballet brings the timeless story of The Nutcracker to the Joburg Theatre’s Nelson Mandela stage. With a slick production and choreography by Angela Malan and artistic management by Iain McDonald & Lauren Slade, the exquisite company have masterfully embodied the music of Tchaikovsky in a wonderful 2 Act pre-Christmas treat.

The Nutcracker has become synonymous with the festivities of Christmas and Holiday cheer and there is no doubt that this offering will have wide appeal to young and older ballet enthusiasts. There is something quite powerful about the fascination and charm of classical ballet, however each theatre goer will experience and take home something completely different. This appealing and magical art form, now more than ever, has a larger appeal to audiences who are interested in discovering something unique and different.

The Nutcracker has been seen throughout the ages for over 100 years and still has magically retained its values and sentimentality.  It has become an almost cult ritual that celebrates the end of a year with sparkle and smiles. Throughout the year Johannesburg audiences have been privileged to witness a number of internationally acclaimed Ballets and The Nutcracker delivers a worthy admiration

It all begins one Christmas Eve where we are invited into a house full of party goers, family and friends who decorate a beautiful and towering Christmas tree. We meet the beautiful young Clara, played by Ana Paulino, who is gifted a toy Nutcracker from her Godfather, Dr Drosselmeyer, performed by Craig Hedderwick, only to discover that her ‘gift’ turns into a handsome prince at midnight. Both Clara and her prince take a magical journey to the Kingdom of the Sweets to rejoice in a display of dancing and cheerfulness.

Along the way we get to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Snow Queen and a group of deliciously eccentric characters. As any magical story goes, there is a great deal more to behold especially with a company who are all effortless in their undertaking.

Audiences continue to remain in awe of a very young and hugely talented company. How refreshing to witness passionate dancers who have the ability to hone in their craft and mould into their respective characters. Stand out performances in this production, are the wonderfully eloquent Nicole Ferreira -Dill who embodied the Snow Queen with ease and Shannon Glover who was graceful in her rendering of The Sugar Plum Fairy. Claudia Monya as always shows strength and ease in her ability as a principal dancer . Credit needs to be given to the hugely talented Armando Barros, Leusson Muniz, Revil Yon and Ruan Galdino, a quadruplet threat who individually make the art of storytelling through movement and dance all the more wonderful to watch.

Understated yet powerful sets have a captivating feel especially when we are transported to different scenic changes. This production is joined by the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and under the baton of Conductor Eddie Clayton is it wonderful to hear all the memorable music we have come to love.

Considering The Nutcrackers short run, we would suggest you clear your calendars for the week and make a date with Joburg Ballet to experience this classic ballet and beautiful story telling at its best.

The Nutcracker will be running at the Joburg Theatre until 14th of October 2018. Tickets are available at Webtickets or at the theatre.

The post Review: The Nutcracker appeared first on Stage and Screen.

By David Simmons

Celebrating art in South Africa is probably one of the most rewarding pastimes a person can participate in. We not only pay homage to art in its theatrical form, but applaud and honour the bursting and at times overlooked talent our country has to offer. The latest, sumptuous offering from Joburg Ballet brings us Carmen, a dramatic exploration of passion, seduction, jealousy and betrayal, the perfect quartet for a night of sheer and uncensored entertainment. Together with an illustrious score by Georges Bizet, Carmen scoops a well-deserved double thumbs-up.

Most classical music and opera enthusiasts will be familiar with the music and powerful story of Carmen. However, the title role and character in this impressive ballet is a complex one. Even though Carmen’s transparency is evident on stage, she is a woman with an agenda and an evident carnal desire to seduce even the most inconspicuous of men.

2018 has seen a number of productions focusing on women and Carmen is no exception. With a character who knows no limits in the art of seduction, we as an audience automatically fall in love with her. We may not agree with her motives, nevertheless her conniving free spirit is hard to pass off as unnoticeable. Her journey is one of desire and betrayal that ultimately leads to her downfall.

Set in Seville, Spain, Carmen’s account of love and deception is one we have heard countless times before. Hers is an emotional yet obsessed battle of sort, scarred with the usual complexities of deceitful liaisons. The intense and at times frenzied communication through dance and movement, makes this theatrical savouring all the more enticing. We witness a fiery love affair between Carmen and Don José, but their courtship is doomed from the start. Their passionate connection is distracted with the presence of Don’s finance, Micaela, and not forgetting Carmen’s star struck conquests, Captain Zuniga and Escamillo a famous Toreador.  Carmen snakes her way around weaving an imaginary cloak wherever she goes. She leaves no stone unturned and no contemporaries untouched.

The incredibly slick choreography by Veronica Paeper and Iain Macdonald’s artistic direction, gives this Ballet a notable flair, befitting international standards. If you are expecting pink tutus and sparkling tiaras, think again! Carmen is a first-class act filled with gypsies, flamenco influence and the unmistakable sights and sounds of a bygone era. The understated scenic backdrops and sets, typical of life in the 1800’s together with moody lighting throughout, creates a perfect ambience in keeping with an already high-spirited Ballet.

Playing the title role of Carmen is Claudia Monya who smoothly channels her desire and frustration with the flutter of an eyelash, the seductive arch of her leg and even a poised tilt of her neck. She is a marvel to watch with each movement in unison with the rhythmic click of a castanet, or the intense beat of Spanish footwork. Leusson Muniz as Don José is equally convincing and gives an enduring performance. Armando Barros who embodies Escamillo the handsome Toreador and Nicole Ferreira-Dill who takes on the role of Michaela, each exquisitely master their respective roles with fierce determination. Credit needs to be given to the entire company who effortlessly contribute to a very bold staging.

To add to an already outstanding offering, Joburg theatre welcomes The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra who under the baton of Brandon Phillips creates a dazzling addition to an already well-crafted show. Joburg theatre is highly praised for producing Ballets of the highest standard and Carmen is no exception. The production sits in a league of its own and has a refreshing yet powerful tone. This may be one of the best locally produced ballets I’ve seen and with its incredibly short run it will be disrespectful not to see it twice!

Carmen will be running at the Joburg Theatre until 15 of April 2018. Tickets are available at Webtickets or at the theatre.

[tooltip text="Photos: Lauge Sorensen" gravity="nw"]Photos supplied by Joburg Ballet[/tooltip]

The post Carmen appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Casting announced for leading roles

Joburg Ballet opens a bumper 2018 year in sizzling style when the company brings South African choreographer Veronica Paeper’s production of Carmen to Joburg Theatre for ten performances from 6 to 15 April. Joburg Ballet will perform to live orchestral accompaniment for the first time in many years, when the launched Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) takes its place in the orchestra pit, bringing to life composer Georges Bizet’s famous music.

Last seen on the Johannesburg stage eight years ago, Paeper’s acclaimed full-length ballet returns to showcase a new generation of Joburg Ballet stars in the roles of Carmen and Don José in this searing story of passion and betrayal under the Spanish sun.

Of the season’s four ballerinas sharing the title role, Shannon Glover and Sanmarie Kreuzhuber will return to a role they first danced several years ago while Claudia Monja and Monike Cristina are making their debuts as Carmen.  Carmen’s lover Don Jose will be danced by Ruan Galdino (with Glover), Leusson Muniz (with both Monja and Kreuzhuber) and Revil Yon (with Cristina). *Full performance casting below.

Joburg Ballet’s CEO Esther Nasser welcomes the company’s association with the JPO adding, “No matter how fine a ballet company is, dancing to a live orchestra brings a dynamic brilliance and dramatic force to performances. Joburg Ballet is thrilled to be working with the JPO in an association that brings two of Johannesburg’s most applauded artistic companies together.”

Speaking on behalf of the orchestra, JPO artistic director and CEO Bongani Tembe said, “The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is excited by the new collaboration with Joburg Ballet. Both organizations share the mission of enriching the local community by offering high calibre productions, implementing education initiatives and offering performance opportunities to a wide range of artists.”

Joburg Ballet offers a range of affordable ticketing options for Carmen, including half price on opening night, the popular Early Bird Special offering 30% off all full price seats booked before 11 February, two budget priced morning matinees with all seats just R100 and discounts for pensioners and groups.

Carmen: Performance Casting (Subject to change)

Friday 6 April at 19:30: Claudia Monja and Leusson Muniz

Saturday 7 April at 15:00: Shannon Glover and Ruan Galdino

Saturday 7 April at 19:30: Monike Cristina and Revil Yon

Sunday 8 April at 15:00: Claudia Monja and Leusson Muniz

Tuesday 10 April at 11:00: Monike Cristina and Revil Yon

Wednesday 11 April at 11:00: Sanmarie Kreuzhuber and Leusson Muniz

Friday 13 April at 19:30: Claudia Monja and Leusson Muniz

Saturday 14 April at 15:00: Shannon Glover and Ruan Galdino

Saturday 14 April at 19:30: Sanmarie Kreuzhuber and Leusson Muniz

Sunday 15 April at 15:00: Shannon Glover and Ruan Galdino

Carmen:

Joburg Theatre

Dates, Times, Prices:

Friday 6 April at 19:30 – Half Price: R100, R138, R188, R205, R238

Saturday 7 April, Friday 13 April, Saturday 14 April at 19:30

Saturday 7 April, Sunday 8 April, Saturday 14 April, Sunday 15 April at  15:00

– Early Bird 30% off until 11 February: R140, R193, R263, R287, R333;

Standard Prices from 12 February: R200, R275, R375, R410, R475

Tuesday 10 April & Wednesday 11 April at 11:00 – All tickets R100

Book now at Joburg Theatre Box Office; or tel. 0861 670 670; or online at www.joburgtheatre.com or www.webtickets.co.za

Images by Lauge Sorensen

The post Joburg Ballet's Carmen appeared first on Stage and Screen.