A LOVE STORY FOR VALENTINE’S: GISELLE LAUNCHES JOBURG BALLET’S 25th ANNIVERSARY SEASON

This Valentine's season, immerse yourself in a timeless tale of love beyond the grave as Joburg Ballet proudly launches its 25th Anniversary Season. Marking a significant silver jubilee since the company's founding in 2001, the beloved romantic ballet Giselle returns to captivate audiences. This iconic production, last staged in 2019, promises an unforgettable experience at the Joburg Theatre and the South African State Theatre.

A Quarter-Century Legacy: Giselle's Enduring Appeal

Giselle: A quintessential romantic ballet, it tells a heartrending story of passion, betrayal, and ultimate forgiveness. Its powerful narrative explores a love so profound it transcends death, featuring one of the most challenging and coveted ballerina roles.

This profound ballet holds a special place in Joburg Ballet's history. It was the very first production performed by the company when it was known as the South African Ballet Theatre (SABT), and it has remained a cherished mainstay of the repertoire ever since. This 25th-anniversary staging is a poignant nod to the company’s rich heritage.

The Visionary Creative Team

This milestone production of Giselle is meticulously staged by acclaimed former South African-born ballerina, Angela Malan. Now an admired Europe-based international ballet teacher, coach, and producer, Malan brings her extensive expertise and artistic vision to this cherished work.

She is supported by a distinguished team:

Kim Vieira: Joburg Ballet's esteemed ballet mistress.
Nicole Ferreira-Dill: Assistant producer. Appropriately for this anniversary, Ferreira-Dill enjoyed a distinguished career as a principal dancer with Joburg Ballet.
Karen Beukes MacDonald: Assistant producer. Like Ferreira-Dill, Beukes MacDonald also had a remarkable career as a principal dancer with Joburg Ballet.

Principal Dancers and Role Debuts

Audiences will witness exceptional talent grace the stage, including several exciting role debuts.

Sharing the Title Role of Giselle:

Tammy Higgins (role debut)
Ryoko Yagyu
Monike Cristina

Leading Male Role of Albrecht:

Revil Yon (with Tammy Higgins)
Ivan Domiciano (role debut, with Ryoko Yagyu)
Bruno Miranda (role debut, with Monike Cristina)

Other Key Role Debuts:

Gabriella Ghiaroni: As the icy Queen of the Wilis (ghostly female spirits).
Mario Gaglione: As Hilarion.

Beyond the four leading roles, the ballet also provides a powerful showcase for dancers in supporting roles and a magnificent massed corps de ballet. Their chilling appearance in the ghostly second act is a highlight.

Celebrate Valentine's Day with Giselle

Coinciding beautifully with Valentine’s Day, the Giselle season offers two performances on Saturday, February 14, at 2pm and 7pm. This timing makes it an ideal and romantic opportunity to share this ethereal ballet with your Valentine.

Exclusive Giselle Open Day

For an even more immersive Giselle experience, Joburg Ballet is hosting an Open Day.

Date: Saturday, February 7
Time: 10am to 1pm
Location: Joburg Ballet studios
What to Expect: Meet the talented dancers, connect with fellow ballet enthusiasts, learn more about the ballet's intricacies, and observe the company during class and rehearsal.
Tickets: R150 (includes refreshments)
Booking:
Phone: 011-877 6898
Email: futhi@joburgballet.com

Giselle Booking Information: Don't Miss Out!

Joburg Theatre, Johannesburg

Dates & Times:
Thursday, February 12 at 7pm
Friday, February 13 at 7pm
Saturday, February 14 at 2pm & 7pm
Sunday, February 15 at 2pm
Ticket Prices: R250 – R670
Booking: Secure your seats at [https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1492531631](https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1492531631)

South African State Theatre, Pretoria

Dates & Times:
Friday, February 20 (Schools Performance) at 7pm
Saturday, February 21 at 7pm
Sunday, February 22 at 3pm
Ticket Prices: R220 – R380
Booking: Purchase your tickets via Webtickets.

For further details and to explore more about Joburg Ballet's exciting 25th Anniversary Season, please visit [www.joburgballet.com](http://www.joburgballet.com/).