Joburg Ballet’s "DreamScapes" is a powerful celebration of African heritage and diversity

DreamScapes dancers performing at the Roodepoort Theatre in Johannesburg. Picture: Lauge Sorensen.

After nearly a decade, Joburg Ballet makes a dramatic return to the Roodepoort Theatre with a transformative triple bill, DreamScapes. 

Through a fusion of music, movement, and visual storytelling, DreamScapes delves into the collective consciousness of a nation still reckoning with its past while envisioning its future. It weaves together personal histories and shared experiences, creating a tapestry of sound and emotion that resonates deeply with audiences. 

Rooted in the rhythms of jazz and traditional African music, the production pays homage to the resilience and creativity that define South African artistry. 

At the heart of DreamScapes lies a rich tapestry of artistry that weaves together the classical beauty of Les Sylphides, an evocative new work titled The Underworld & Elsewhere by choreographer Kitty Phehla, and an electrifying piece called Resonance by interim artistic director Dane Hurst. 

Collectively, these works embark on an artistic journey navigating the realms of reality, tradition, and identity, promising audiences an unforgettable dance experience. 

DreamScapes dancers performing at the Roodepoort Theatre in Johannesburg. Picture: Lauge Sorensen

Opening the programme is the timeless classic Les Sylphides, a cornerstone of ballet choreography famously interpreted by Joburg Ballet’s ballet mistress Kim Vieira. 

This work encapsulates ethereal grace through its dreamlike depictions of harmony and beauty, enhanced by the emotive strains of Frédéric Chopin’s music. It serves as a cherished homage to ballet's longstanding traditions, setting a foundation that enables the contemporary narratives to unfold. 

Following this classical homage is The Underworld & Elsewhere, a thought-provoking piece by Kitty Phehla. This choreography acts as a metaphorical bridge between the past, present, and future, drawing inspiration from ancestral spirits and the energies that resonate through generations. 

“The Underworld and Elsewhere is a transcendent narrative that delves into the realms of the subconscious,” says Phehla. 

“Through the language of contemporary and neoclassical, this piece seeks to awaken the audience's inner consciousness, inviting them to embark on the journey of self-discovery.” 

She emphasises the essential interconnectedness of human experience, noting that the answers we see can lie in the quiet moments, where the energies of our ancestors reside. 

“We are drawn to the mystery of the past, which continues to resonate with us in the present. Through universal languages of song, history, dance and healing, we seek to connect with the Elsewhere that lies beyond our mundane reality,” she says. 

“This ballet is an invitation to tune into the silence and stillness that surrounds us every day, to listen to the whispers of our collective consciousness. By embracing the wisdom of the underworld, we may transcend our limitations and gain insight into the human experience. 

“In The Underworld, transcendence is facilitated through the symbolic realms of the oracles. Elsewhere, the moon water, which represents cleansing and spiritual breath,” concludes Phehla. 

As a striking contrast, Resonance showcases the vibrant energy and human resilience found within diverse cultural landscapes. Set against the backdrop of acclaimed South African composer Kyle Shepherd’s evocative album, South African History !X. 

DreamScapes dancers performing at the Roodepoort Theatre in Johannesburg. Picture: Lauge Sorensen

Hurst's piece reflects on historical melting-pot communities such as District Six and Sophiatown. Celebrating the unifying power of music and dance, Resonance becomes a profound exploration of transformation and freedom of expression. 

Elroy Fillis-Bell, CEO of Joburg Ballet, reflects on Hurst's return to the South African cultural landscape after two decades in the UK. 

“Dane has built an incredible career abroad and is now rooting himself back to explore and share our rich heritage. This piece speaks to our current moment, recognising where we stand 30 years into democracy while engaging with the legacy we still grapple with. Creating a jazz ballet allows for a powerful exploration of transformation and expression, drawing directly from Hurst’s own upbringing Gqeberha,” he says. 

“Dane approached this piece with great intentionality, focusing on our present moment—30 years into democracy and reflecting on where we stand as a nation. He explores what still resonates with the people of South Africa, the unresolved echoes of our past. Drawing from his own experiences in South End, Gqeberha, and his father's legacy in a jazz band, he brings a deeply personal and poignant perspective to the work,” concludes Fillis-Bell. 

DreamScapes dancers performing at the Roodepoort Theatre in Johannesburg. Picture: Lauge Sorensen

DreamScapes is more than just a ballet performance; it is an artistic exploration that captures the essence of memory, identity, and the evolving South African narrative. 

DreamScapes is currently showcasing at the Roodepoort Theatre until April 6, with tickets priced from R100 available through Webtickets.