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Joburg Ballet’s Scarcity is a Powerful Fusion of Contemporary and Classical Dance

In their debut season in Cape Town, Joburg Ballet’s highly anticipated Scarcity is coming to the Baxter Theatre from 24 to 26 October. This showing marks the company’s very first full production in Cape Town with some of their principals, Monike Cristina, Tammy Higgins and Revil Yon.

A highlight in this mixed bill is foremost choreographer Dada Masilo’s reimagining of Salomé which showcases a dynamic blend of local and international talent, offering a rich variety of choreography and powerful new works.

A universal weaving of culture, movement and deeply relevant themes

This season of Scarcity includes the South African premiere of Azul and three world premieres. Although none of the choreographers perform in the production, they will all be present on opening night to witness their works brought to life by Joburg Ballet’s dancers.

The programme’s theme of scarcity is particularly resonant for South Africans. “Scarcity shapes the social context of people’s lives, whether it’s the lack of service delivery or the loss of dignity,” explains Joburg Ballet CEO Elroy Fillis-Bell. “The show examines the absence of material and natural resources, as well as identity and memory, adding emotional depth to its stunning choreography.”

More about the original works on the Scarcity programme

Joburg Ballet Scarcity in Cape Town
Thando Mokoena and Latoya Mokoena in Salomé by Dada Masilo. Photography by Lauge Sorensen

Salomé by Dada Masilo

Dada Masilo’s Salomé is inspired by Oscar Wilde’s play and explores themes of desire, power, and passion. Known for her innovative fusion of African dance with classical narratives, Masilo brings a fresh, emotionally charged movement language to this timeless story.

Earlier this month in Italy, Masilo was honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Premio Positano Léonide Massine for the Art of Dance. The award recognises her global status as “one of the most innovative contemporary choreographers and dancers, celebrated for her reimagined versions of classic works. Past recipients of this honour include Rudolf Nureyev, Gianni Versace, Maurice Béjart, and Natalia Osipova.

Joburg Ballet Scarcity in Cape Town
Monike Cristina and Ivan Domiciano in Craig Pedro’s Ukukhanya Kwenyanga: A Moonlight Waltz. Photography by Lauge Sorensen

Ukukhanya Kwenyanga: A Moonlight Waltz by Craig Pedro

The iconic music of Johann Strauss and Pietro Mascagni sets the tone for Craig Pedro’s Ukukhanya Kwenyanga: A Moonlight Waltz. Here the choreographer merges classical ballet movements mixed with isiXhosa motifs.

Craig’s choreography features dancers in the familiar tutu silhouette adorned with Xhosa print and bead design motifs, elegantly presenting European dance styles with local cultural elements.

Joburg Ballet Scarcity in Cape Town
Revil Yon in Hannah Ma’s The Void. Photography by Lauge Sorensen

The Void by Hannah Ma

Award-winning choreographer Hannah Ma presents The Void, a moving exploration of the human soul set against a world in turmoil. Through stillness, joy, truth, and connection, The Void reminds us of the beauty of human existence and the importance of preserving humanity.

Joburg Ballet
Darragh Hourrides in Azul by Jorge Pérez Martínez

Azul by Jorge Pérez Martínez

Jorge Pérez Martínez’s Azul is a spirited and expressive work that evokes the fluidity of water and captures the atmosphere of the Mediterranean. Danced to classical Spanish guitar compositions, Azul features a beautiful pas de deux and showcases a dynamic, flowing dance language.

How to book tickets

Cost: From R180pp to R300pp | Tickets available via Webtickets | Discounts available for senior citizens, students, groups of ten or more, and children aged 4 to 7

When: Running from Thurs, 24 to Sat, 26 Oct | Evening performances at 7pm | Matinees on 25 and 26 October at 11am and 2pm
Where: Pam Golding venue, Baxter Theatre, Cape Town

Website: joburgballet.com
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @JoburgBalletCompany
Instagram: @joburg_ballet

See more live theatre and dance shows in Cape Town

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