CAPE TOWN City Ballet (CTCB), South Africa’s oldest ballet company, is thrilled to have inspired a dynamic collaboration between Jazzart Dance Theatre, Joburg Ballet and several guest soloists in the upcoming I Got Rhythm. Choreographed by CTCB artistic producer David Nixon and set to George Gershwin’s timeless music, this exuberant production fuses ballet, jazz and neo classical dance styles and will launch the company’s 90th anniversary year with a 10-day season at Artscape opening 17 May 2024. The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra will be conducted onstage by Brandon Phillips.
Guest dancers include David Ward (USA), Darragh Hourrides and Bruno Miranda (Joburg Ballet), Casey Swales (SA), Oleksii Ischchenko (SA/Ukraine) alongside CTCB dancers including Kirstél Paterson, Leané Theunissen, Jordan Roelfze, Bella Redman, Paige McElligott, Hannah Ward, Fanelo Ndweni and Leusson Muniz. Several artists from Cape Town Opera will also make an appearance.
From the soul-stirring Rhapsody in Blue and Summertime to the infectious energy of Girl Crazy and An American in Paris, the production is reminiscent of an era steeped in glamour and romance, reflecting Nixon’s ability to seamlessly blend diverse dance styles into a harmonious whole. “I Got Rhythm is a fitting tribute to the 90th milestone of this historic company,” said Nixon, “a jubilant celebration not only of Gershwin’s genius but also of the rich cultural tapestry of Cape Town.”
CTCB was established in 1934 as the University of Cape Town Ballet Company and evolved into CAPAB Ballet in 1964 before assuming its current name in 1997. The company also holds the distinguished title of being the oldest ballet company in the Southern Hemisphere.
I Got Rhythm is at the Artscape Opera House from 17 to 26 May 2024 with matinees at 2.30pm and evening performances at 7.30pm. Tickets from R180 to R750 through Webtickets and Artscape Dial-A-Seat 021 421 7695. Advance booking is highly recommended.
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