Cape Town City Ballet Announces an Electric Lineup of 2026 Performances

Cape Town City Ballet has unveiled a dynamic 2026 season filled with timeless classics, bold re-imaginings and vibrant collaborations that showcase the company’s versatility and artistic excellence. From vintage glamour and gothic storytelling to whimsical fantasy and youth-driven performance, the new year promises an unmissable programme for dance lovers of all ages.

All of Cape Town City Ballet’s 2026 Performances

23 – 24 January 2026: Swingtime

The year opens on a nostalgic note with Swingtime, choreographed by Sean Bovim, which takes audiences on a journey through the Big Band Era. Centred on Bojangles, the owner of the legendary Swing Club, this ballet is a joyful blend of Broadway flair and classical dance, filled with romance, rhythm and nostalgia.

Swingtime will be performed at the Maynardville Open-Air Festival on 23 and 24 January 2026, with tickets now available via Quicket.

13 – 29 March 2026: Dracula

In March, audiences will be transported into the haunting world of Dracula, choreographed by David Nixon CBE and inspired by Bram Stoker’s gothic novel. Set in Victorian England, this thrilling production follows Jonathan Harker’s ill-fated encounter with Count Dracula in Transylvania, unfolding into a gripping tale of temptation, horror and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Dracula runs at Artscape Theatre from 13 to 29 March 2026. Tickets are available on Webtickets.

12 – 21 June 2026: Orpheus in the Underworld

June sees the stage light up with Veronica Paeper’s glittering production of Orpheus in the Underworld, a glamorous, 1920s-inspired romp loosely based on Jacques Offenbach’s operetta. Featuring flapper girls, Mafia henchmen, a penthouse swimming pool for the gods and music arranged by Michael Tuffin, this witty, high-energy ballet promises laughter, spectacle and irresistible charm.

Performances take place at the Artscape Opera House from 12 to 21 June 2026. Tickets are available on Webtickets.

16 June 2026: Centre Stage

On 16 June, the company presents Centre Stage, a one-night-only fundraising gala at the Artscape Opera House. Over 300 dancers from 21 studios and seven genres will unite in celebration of dance, under the ambassadorship of former CTCB principal dancer Laura Bosenberg, alongside Sanette van der Mescht.

All proceeds will go directly to supporting the company’s ongoing artistic and community initiatives.

26 – 27 September 2026: Velvet Feathers

Velvet Feathers is a poetic tribute to the timeless beauty of classical ballet, drawing inspiration from Swan Lake and other great works to celebrate grace, fragility and artistry in an intimate setting.

Velvet Feathers takes place at the Norval Foundation from 26 – 27 September 2026

11 – 30 December 2026: The Nutcracker

The year concludes with a festive favourite: The Nutcracker, running from 11 to 30 December at Artscape. Choreographed by Veronica Paeper with sets and costumes by Peter Cazalet, this much-loved production captures the magic of Tchaikovsky’s score and the wonder of Clara’s journey into the Land of Sweets