Following the successful run of 'Swan Lake' in Johannesburg, the rapidly growing company Cape Ballet Africa (CBA) is preparing to delight Cape Town audiences with its long-awaited Spring program.
From October 3rd to 11th, the company will present ELYSIUM at the Pam Golding Theatre at The Baxter. This quadruple bill demonstrates the organization's commitment to both classical mastery and modern innovation.
ELYSIUM unites carefully selected productions from four different choreographic voices: George Balanchine, Nacho Duato, Kenneth Tindall, and Michelle Reed.
The program begins with George Balanchine's 'Allegro Brillante'—a joyful and expansive celebration of romanticism set to Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 3. This iconic piece was presented by CBA featuring Diana White from the George Balanchine Trust.
Next, the company revives Nacho Duato's 'REMANSO,' performed to Enrique Granados' Poetic Waltzes. Critics highly praised this work as an 'witty and expressive' exploration of human connection. The production returns to the stage at the request of the public.
The program also includes two new premieres. Internationally acclaimed choreographer Kenneth Tindall from the UK presents 'We Met At The Moon, Briefly.' Tindall described the ballet as a 'physically demanding, very beautiful ballet,' noting that it was inspired by the unique setting of Cape Town itself.
Completing the program is 'Duende'—a powerful new ballet by South African choreographer Michelle Reed. It is set to the sounds of Spanish guitar by Estás Tonne, and Reed's choreography aims to convey the magnetism and inexplicable charm associated with the word 'duende.'
Artistic Director and founder Debbie Turner considers this production a significant milestone, noting that two years have passed since the company debuted with its first production, SALT, at The Baxter. Turner stated: 'A lot of exciting things have happened since then, and we are thrilled to return to the The Baxter stage with this captivating quadruple billing.'
Since its founding in 2024, CBA has quickly gained international recognition. The company's philosophy, which combines rigorous classical technique with the rich heritage of South African culture, has proven to be a successful formula.
Their pursuit of excellence has already brought international acclaim, notably winning the prestigious Benois de la Danse Awards 2025 in the categories of 'Best Choreography' and 'Best Male Dancer' for 'Mthutuzeli November Chapter 2.'
ELYSIUM promises to be a journey of ethereal beauty and dynamic storytelling. Performances will take place from October 3rd to 11th at The Baxter. Tickets are available in the price range of R200 to R495 and can be purchased through Webtickets or at Pick n Pay stores. The schedule includes evening performances from Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30 PM, matinee shows on October 4th and 10th at 3:00 PM, and a special performance for seniors on October 8th at 11:00 AM. Further information can be found on the Cape Ballet Africa website or on the company's social media channels.