Mzansi Ballet in a scene from the production. PICTURE: Hendrik Grobbelaar
Mzansi Ballet will represent the Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe Ballet at the Baxter theatre from Wednesday February 7 to Saturday February 17.
The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe Ballet was commissioned by the South African International Ballet Competition (SAIBC).
Mzansi Ballet comprises both South African and international dancers. With choreography by Angela Revie and input by Mdu Nhlapo, the work is a fusion of classical and Afro-ballet and contemporary dance, enhanced by poetic narration in parts. The score includes three compositions by the double Grammy Award-winning flautist, producer and composer, Wouter Kellerman and other dedicated music by musical arranger and director Mark Cheyne and co-composers SJ Khosa, Dr Cara Stacey, Matthijs van Dijk as well as indigenous music specialist, Mpho Molikeng.
The storyline of Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe Ballet connects the mythical world with an ancient African civilisation and modern society, highlighting a 1 000-year-old lost civilisation and a 100-year-old archaeological discovery entangled with colonial politics.
Costumes are by David Tlale and the set is by Andrew Botha.
Ticket prices range from R120 to R 330 through Webtickets, with a 10% discount for block bookings of 10 or more and a 20% discount for senior citizens, pupils and students.