The South African Ballet Theatre (SABT) recently announced that although debt free, it is facing severe financial challenges and, if substantial immediate funding is not found, then the board will have to take robust action to preserve the integrity of the company.
The first season is the world's best-known ballet, Swan Lake. The Swan Lake season will be performed at the Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein from 12 March to 4 April 2010. The SABT's production will take its cue from the traditional Petipa version of the ballet, whilst incorporating fresh elements tailored to suit the company. The ballet will have a shorter running time and there will be only one interval.
Wednesday and Thursday evening performances of SABT's 2010 Joburg Theatre seasons will start at 17.30pm instead of the usual 8pm, to enable patrons to have an enjoyable night at the theatre, yet not get home too late during the week.
A Swan Lake Open Day will be presented on Saturday, 27 February 2010, starting at 10am and ending at 1pm. Open Days at the SABT's Braamfontein studios are a rare opportunity for the public to catch a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes preparations for a season.
Booking for Open Day are already open from Edgar Moagi on + 27 (0) 11 877 6898 or email . The cost is R60 per person.
The ballet Carmen returns to Johannesburg, after a seven-year absence, from 13 to 29 August 2010. The fiery saga of Carmen and Don José comes to the stage in a sensual version by acclaimed Cape Town choreographer Veronica Paeper. Paeper's Carmen captures the passion of southern Spain in a ballet highlighted by spectacular pas de deux for the principal dancers, plus showpieces for the corps de ballet of matadors, smugglers, fiesta ladies and gypsies.
A Carmen Open Day will be presented on Saturday, 31 July 2010, from 10am to 1pm. The cost is R60 per person.
Booking for both Open Days, as well as the combined ticket offer for Swan Lake and Carmen seasons, are open from Moagi on + 27 (0) 11 877 6898 or email .
General bookings for Swan Lake and Carmen are open through Computicket and include 10 percent discounts for block bookings of 10 tickets or more, plus student and pensioner discounts upon presentation of a valid student or pensioner's card.
For further information, go to www.saballettheatre.co.za or www.computicket.co.za.
