Joburg Ballet’s 25th anniversary season begins with romantic classic 'Giselle'

Joburg Ballet will launch its 25th Anniversary Season with a new production of the romantic classical ballet Giselle, returning to the Joburg Theatre stage from Thursday, February 12,  to Sunday, February 15.

Marking the silver jubilee of the company’s founding in 2001, the production was last staged by Joburg Ballet in 2019 and remains a mainstay of the company’s repertoire.

“This iconic ballet was the first to be performed by the company, then known as the South African Ballet Theatre (SABT) and has remained a mainstay of the company’s repertoire ever since,” the company said.

Giselle is being staged by former South African-born ballerina Angela Malan, now an international ballet teacher, coach and producer based in Europe. Working with Malan are Joburg Ballet’s ballet mistress Kim Vieira, assistant producers Nicole Ferreira-Dill and Karen Beukes MacDonald.

Following its Johannesburg run, the ballet will tour to the South African State Theatre in Pretoria on Friday February 20 at noon, Saturday February 21 at 3pm and Sunday February 22 at 3pm.

Joburg Ballet dancers sharing the title role during the season are principals Tammy Higgins, Ryoko Yagyu and Monike Cristina. In the leading male role of Albrecht, audiences will see Revil Yon with Higgins, Ivan Domiciano with Yagyu and Bruno Miranda with Cristina.

Gabriella Ghiaroni makes her role debut as the Queen of the Wilis, while Mario Gaglione makes his role debut as Hilarion.

Coinciding with Valentine’s Day, the season includes two performances on Saturday February 14, at 2pm and 7pm.

“To make your Giselle experience even more special Joburg Ballet is hosting an Open Day at the Joburg Ballet studios on Saturday, February 7, from 10am to 1pm,” the company said.

For ticket prices call 011 877 6898 or email at [email protected] and more information, visit www.joburgballet.com