Joburg Ballet's 2024 season opens with the exhilarating four-part SCARCITY.  Scarcity is a quartet of works that feature one South African première and three world premières. The impressive line-up of choreographers showcased includes South Africa’s very own Dada Masilo and Craig Pedro, Chinese-German choreographer Hannah Ma, and Netherlands-based Spanish choreographer Jorge Pérez Martínez.

Commenting on the name of the show, Joburg Ballet’s CEO Elroy Fillis–Bell (read his #MyJoburg interview here) explains that SCARCITY represents both the concept and reality of scarcity, which many South Africans have become accustomed to, whether due to a lack of service delivery or a loss of dignity. As South Africa celebrates its 30th year of democracy, Joburg Ballet's reflects the current moment in society.

The performances are utterly captivating, showcasing a range of ballet styles, from classical to contemporary.  

Salomé, choreographed by Masilo, is based on Oscar Wilde's play of the same name. It revolves around desire, power, and the destructive nature of unbridled passion. Provocative and seductive, you won't be able to take your eyes off the stage. The Void, by multi-award-winning choreographer Ma, delves into the vastness of the human soul, creating a moment of stillness, joy, truth, deep connection, and forgiveness. The costumes are flamboyant, and the opening is eye-catching, while the theme it delves into is complex. 

Azul, which means blue in Spanish, features a graceful dance style that resembles the movement of water. Choreographed by Martínez, this lively performance is characterised by its expressive body language that captures the essence of the Mediterranean and the Spanish atmosphere. It's hard to choose between the four, but if forced, this was our favourite. It captures the word blue, from lighting to costumes. 

In Ukukhanya Kwenyanga: A Moonlight Waltz, Pedro merges the European style of dance with South Africa’s beautiful Xhosa designs. The waltz is set to music by Johann Strauss and Pietro Mascagni. The dance highlights classical ballet technique, with dancers wearing romantic tutus embellished with Xhosa print and bead motifs.  Classicists will love this piece. 

These four works are thought-provoking in how they examine the social context of our lives and delve into the lack of natural and material resources, as well as the erosion of memory, identity, and self.