Awe-inspiring balletic performances

Published May 31, 2011

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Romeo and Juliet

COMPANY: The South African Ballet Theatre (with the SABT Synfonia)

VENUE: Joburg Theatre until June

RATING: ******

Staging a production of this magnitude is no mean feat. It is expensive, requires an extensive cast and lavish sets and costumes.

With the assistance of the National Lottery Fund and various other sponsors, SABT managed to produce a world-class production – evidence of what perseverance and dedication can accomplish.

The detailed extravaganza, with vast sets and exquisite costumes, is overwhelming. A further treat is the live music by the SABT Synfonia under the baton of Timothy Roberts. They flawlessly perform the score by Sergei Prokoviev.

Bernise Silvius as Juliet is awe- inspiring. Her technical prowess is so secure that she effortlessly executes every movement with flair and charm. Her characterisation is intensely convincing.

Partnering Silvius as Romeo is Juan Ledo, guest artist from Teatro Colon of Buenos Aires. Ledo gives a sterling performance. His portrayal of Romeo is commanding and masculine.

Equally impressive is Ayun Kyung Cho as Mercutio and James Fraser as Benvolio (Romeo’s friends).

Other character roles by Iain MacDonald, Anya Carstens, Fiona Budd, Manuel Noram, Jonathon Rodrigues, Natasha Island, Andre de Beer and Thulani Chauke are superbly portrayed.

Romeo and Juliet is a true ballet spectacle and should not be missed.

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