Cape Ballet Africa presents an exciting new programme featuring 'Petite Giselle' and 'SALT-ed

Following two successful sold-out runs at The Drama Factory, Cape Ballet Africa returns, this time to unveil an exciting new programme featuring six performances from 10 to 14 September. This captivating combination showcases the classical ballet Petite Giselle alongside the contemporary dance piece SALT-ed. Audiences are set to experience beloved excerpts from Maina Gielgud’s traditional ballet Giselle, fused with Michelle Reid’s vibrant choreography in Smoke, a part of the acclaimed triple bill SALT.

This season holds special significance, as it also marks the first South African performances of Kirsten Isenberg's new pas de deux, Nocturne, which made its dazzling debut at the esteemed Benois de la Danse 2025 competition. This promises to enrich an already impressive programme. Cape Ballet Africa is keen to maintain high artistic standards while celebrating cultural heritage through dance.

The exquisite Giselle, choreographed by the esteemed Gielgud, tells a poignant tale of love and betrayal, where the ethereal beauty of the ballet harkens back to the Romantic era. Gielgud herself brings a wealth of international acclaim with a career spanning top dance companies worldwide, including Sadlers Wells Royal Ballet and the Australian Ballet.

"We are honoured to have Ms Gielgud with us to stage her full production of Giselle in November at The Baxter. The timing has aligned perfectly to allow us to offer The Drama Factory audiences highlights from this magnificent ballet," expressed Debbie Turner, the Founder and Artistic Director of Cape Ballet Africa.

In contrast, Smoke by Michelle Reid introduces a modern energy to the show, complemented by its jazzy undertones. Critics have lauded the choreography as "witty," showcasing a clever play of dynamics that builds excitement as the piece unfolds. Maggie Foyer, writing for Dance Europe, praised it as a fitting climax to the evening's performances.

Founded in 2024 by renowned dance figure Debbie Turner, Cape Ballet Africa aims to create a platform where classical ballet intertwines with the diverse cultural narratives of South Africa. The organisation strives to foster individuality within teamwork, allowing dancers to express their unique heritage while mastering the classical techniques of ballet. This harmonious blend of innovation and tradition forms the bedrock of the company’s identity, embodying elegance, refinement, and audacious grace.

To strengthen their vision, Cape Ballet Africa includes esteemed patrons such as Dr Connie September, Diane Van Schoor, and Thoriso Magongwa, helping to uplift young dancers while preparing them for professional success. Mthuthuzeli November’s acclaimed Chapter 2, commissioned for the company’s inaugural season, won prestigious awards, including Best Choreography at the Benois de la Danse Awards 2025. Additionally, the performance has garnered quite a reputation with nominations for Best Ensemble at the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees Kanna Awards.

Cape Ballet Africa continues to aim for excellence not only in performance but in the nurturing of artistic talents and the promotion of dance within the African diaspora. Their commitment to education, collaboration, and community empowerment promises to foster a new generation of budding dancers and dance enthusiasts alike, ensuring that ballet thrives in Southern Africa.