Young dancers from across Cape Town are preparing to take the stage alongside professionals from Cape Town City Ballet (CTCB) as part of an inspiring youth production of the classical ballet 'Coppelia'. The production features dancers from Eoan Group and Dance for All.
Special performances will take place at the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone on Saturday, September 19th, with sessions scheduled for noon and 3:00 PM. This production is the result of a unique collaboration between CTCB, 40 young dancers from Dance for All, and Eoan Group.
Previously, on Saturday, September 12th, the young performers presented a preview of their work to family and friends during an open rehearsal at CTCB studios in Rondebosch.
Executive Direction and Concept
CTCB Artistic Director Tracy Lee noted that this project is part of CTCB's ongoing initiatives to develop youth. She emphasized that 'the project provides these young talents with an invaluable platform to develop technical skills, boost self-confidence, and share the magic of ballet with their local community.'
Over the past three months, the troupe has been under the guidance of experienced dancers from the former Cape Performing Arts Board Ballet (CAPAB)—Niclette Lockston and Marvin Williams. The official CTCB description of the production states that it is a shortened version, which has been reworked with choreography by Lockston and Williams, based on the original choreography by Chechetti.
Williams described the updated structure as a delightful 'mix', explaining that traditional solo pieces have been expanded into dynamic group ensemble sections.
Reimagining the Classic
Instead of individual solos, audiences will see four ladies and two gentlemen performing a lively Spanish dance, six dancers demonstrating fast Scottish footwork, and a playful new scene featuring 12 mischievous mice causing chaos in Dr. Coppelius' house.
Thorough preparation proved very beneficial for the young actors. Luka Ox from Eoan Group, representing Lansdowne, shared her excitement about studying different genres: 'Spanish is very bold, and Scottish is fast footwork. So these are two opposite dance numbers.'
Babalo Simon from Dance for All, representing Crossroads, shared reflections on his artistic growth during rehearsals: 'Learning patience and being part of a production of this level is very good for me.'
Cinetemba Visani from Cape Town City Ballet, representing Sea Point, also participates in the project.
Performance Details
The story tells of Swanhilde, who discovers that her fiancé Franz is enchanted by a realistic wooden doll created by the mysterious Dr. Coppelius. 'Coppelia', filled with humor, romance, and lively antics, remains a favorite piece for all ages.
This season also debuts CTCB artists, including Sean Ntshangangu as Dr. Coppelius, Alexia Mann and Bethany Reinders as Swanhilde, Luke Wragg and Phanelo Ndweni as Franz, and Cinetemba Visani as Don. The story is narrated by Elvis Msebisi Nongjeke. Tickets are R50 per person and available through Webtickets.