This weekend saw the world premiere of Joburg Ballet’s Snow White – The Ballet, choreographed by artistic director Iain MacDonald.
In what can only be described as mesmerising, Snow White proves that art and entertainment need not be mutually exclusive.
In this ballet, remaining predominantly within the classical genre, MacDonald created a work of art that is delightfully entertaining.
Besides the captivating storytelling and engaging characterisations, it is the choreography itself that leaves a lasting impression, with wave upon wave of exhilarating dance sequences cascading throughout the ballet. The work displays the company’s remarkable proficiency with ample virtuosity, astounding ensemble work and dazzling pas de deux routines.
MacDonald’s amalgamation of classical vocabulary interspersed with a neo-classical style and meticulously crafted character dances (fastidiously sculpted by theatre guru Sylvaine Strike) make for great variety which is most pleasurable to watch.
Nicole Ferreira-Dill as Snow White and Leusson Muniz as the Royal Huntsman in Snow White - The Ballet. Picture: Lauge Sorensen
Andrew Botha’s exquisite set design, a combination of traditional 3D design and cutting-edge animation, brings the ballet to life. The vivid animation adds an enchanting touch, with fascinating scene changes, an intriguing setting of moods and a thought-provoking enhancing of the context of the plot.
Simon King’s lighting design, Lauren Slade’s costume design and Kelsey du Toit’s mask designs superbly converge to make a visual feast.
Shannon Glover (as Snow White) gives a magical performance with extraordinary technical prowess and delightful charm. Her pas de deux work with Ruan Galdino (as the Royal Huntsman) is breathtaking.
Nicole Ferreira-Dill as Snow White and Leusson Muniz as the Royal Huntsman in Snow White - The Ballet. Picture: Lauge Sorensen
Monike Cristina’s portrayal as the Queen is most convincing and her dancing is astonishing. Sanmarie Kreuzhuber is an eye magnet. She dances with such tremendous command, style and passion.
Snow White is a ballet for everyone, connoisseurs and newbies alike.
* Bookings at Joburg Theatre box office, or on 0861 670 670 or online at www.joburgtheatre.com or www.webtickets.co.za