South African choreographer Dada Masilo is set to light up the Baxter Theatre stage with her provocative production of Salomé as part of Joburg Ballet’s debut season of Scarcity, running from October 24 to 26.
This ambitious season will also feature compelling works from Craig Pedro, Chinese-German choreographer Hannah Ma, and Netherlands-based Spanish choreographer Jorge Pérez Martínez, making it a diverse celebration of dance.
Following successful runs at the Joburg Theatre and Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK) earlier in the year, the Cape Town edition of Scarcity will highlight one South African premiere — Pedro’s Azul — and three world premieres, including Masilo's much-anticipated presentation.
All choreographers are expected to be present on opening night, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the arts.
Masilo’s excitement is palpable: "I am excited for Cape Town to see Salomé. I actually lived in Cape Town for quite a while... For me creating Salomé was the beginning of a new era of creating," she shares.
This work is a testimony to her unique fusion style, blending classical ballet with various genres, effectively enriching the performers’ expressive capabilities. "
The Joburg Ballet dancers were so receptive to the work... they really opened up," she adds, highlighting the supportive environment that fosters artistic innovation.
Recently awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Premio Positano Léonide Massine for the Art of Dance in Italy, Masilo’s global reputation as a trailblazing contemporary choreographer continues to soar.
Her dynamic storytelling weaves in themes of tolerance and universal human emotions which resonate deeply with audiences globally.
Joburg Ballet’s CEO, Elroy Fillis-Bell, articulates how the theme of scarcity resonates profoundly within the South African context, tackling issues from service delivery to identity and self-worth.
“This programme explores the absence of natural and material resources, as well as the loss of memory, identity, and self,” he explained, hinting at the vital social conversations that the ballet aims to incite.
Masilo's Salomé is rooted in Oscar Wilde’s thought-provoking narrative, addressing themes of desire and power, whilst highlighting the destructive tendencies inherent in human passion.
Pedro's piece, Ukukhanya Kwenyanga: A Moonlight Waltz, beautifully integrates Xhosa aesthetics into classical ballet, further enriching the evening's offerings through a blend of culture and artistry.
Meanwhile, Hannah Ma’s The Void prompts introspection amid turmoil, offering a poignant exploration of the human condition through movement. Jorge Pérez Martínez’s Azul, in contrast, energises the stage with its spirited representation of water’s fluidity, set to enchanting classical Spanish guitar, showcasing the versatility and expressiveness of dance.
The Scarcity season, supported by the Embassies of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Spain, alongside numerous partners, runs from October 24 to 26 at the Pam Golding venue at the Baxter Theatre.
Evening performances begin at 7pm, with special matinees scheduled on October 25 and 26 at 11am and 2pm.
Tickets are priced from R110 via Webticket, with discounts available for senior citizens, students, and large groups, making this cultural event accessible to all.