SWAN LAKE
CAST: Joburg Ballet and Liaoning Ballet of China
VENUE: The Mandela at Joburg Theatre
UNTIL: May 3
RATING: ****
THE collaboration between Joburg Ballet and Liaoning Ballet of China in producing this production of Swan Lake is as spectacular as the diplomatic establishment that it stems from. The production is evident of the superb synergy that manifests when different worlds cross-pollinate through great art.
When placed in the international arena, it is once again encouraging to witness how far Dirk Badenhorst and Iain MacDonald have brought ballet in the new South Africa. Not only has it survived the post-apartheid onslaught in Eurocentric art, it victoriously triumphed as a means that transcends cultural differences in the uniting of people, locally and internationally.
Yu Chuanya as Odette-Odile and Ma Ming as Prince Siegfried impress with commendable technical prowess, but certainly disappoint with lacklustre performances.
Both dancers lack embodiment of their characters. Their expressionless portrayals leave one void of compassion for their characters as well as for their plights.
Kitty Phetla can only be one swan and that is the main swan. Not because she is the only black swan. Not because she is a head taller than the other swans. Not even because she out-dances the other swans, but because of her enigmatic, prodigious presence. Even as part of the corps de ballet, Phetla demands attention with her enthralling persona.
Kelsey Middleton as the Queen deserves a special mention. Middleton ignites every moment on stage with dynamite acting. Audiences know her best for her dance accolades; Middleton is also an accomplished actress and graces the ballet stage with exceptional character performance.
Chase Bosch’s choreography of the Spanish Dance is invigorating and makes for a fervent performance by himself, Natasha O’Brien and Kirstel Jensen. Li Qianhui, Fang Afang, Ao Dingwen and Li Xingyang are flawless as the four Cygnets.
Andrew Botha’s set design and Simon King’s lighting design create a symbioses that is nothing short of mesmerising. The opulence that they fashioned in the Third Act is magical.
The ballet’s good attendance is very reassuring. Be sure not to miss.