DOUBLE DEAL FROM SABT

Special early-bird double deal on ticket prices for South African Ballet Theatre seasons in Johannesburg.

Although debt-free, The South African Ballet Theatre (SABT) is facing severe financial challenges and if substantial immediate funding is not found, the Board will have to take robust action to preserve the integrity of the company. Despite these trying times, SABT is determined to continue presenting world class-productions and has announced a special early-bird double deal on ticket prices to two of its seasons for 2010.

Patrons who book for both SABT’s Swan Lake and their Carmen season at the Joburg Theatre will pay a lower combined-rate price for their tickets.

The first season is the world’s best–known ballet, Swan Lake which will be performed at the Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein, from March 12 to April 4, 2010. Dating back to 1876, the tragic love story of the swan maiden Odette and Prince Siegfried has proved itself to be the one of the most endearing ballets in the repertoire with audiences around the world. The South African Ballet Theatre’s production will take its cue from the traditional Petipa version of the ballet whilst incorporating fresh elements tailored to suit the Company. The ballet will have a shorter running time and there will be only one interval.

Wednesday and Thursday evening performances of SABT’s 2010 Joburg Theatre seasons will start at 19h30 instead of the usual 20h00, to enable patrons to have an enjoyable night at the theatre without getting home too late during the week. A Swan Lake Open Day will be presented on February 27 from 10h00 to 13h00.

After a seven year absence, the ballet Carmen returns to Johannesburg from August 13 to 29. The fiery saga of Carmen and Don José is played out in a sensual version by acclaimed Cape Town choreographer Veronica Paeper. Set to Bizet’s famous music score, Paeper’s ballet explores the volatile relationship between the streetwise Carmen and young officer Don José who loses his heart to Carmen. Paeper’s Carmen captures the passion of southern Spain in a ballet highlighted by spectacular pas de deux for the principal dancers plus showpieces for the corps de ballet of matadors, smugglers, fiesta ladies and gypsies. A Carmen Open Day will be presented on July 31 from 10h00 to 13h00.

Open Days at the SABT’s Braamfontein studios are a rare opportunity for the public to catch a glimpse into the behind the scenes preparations for a season. Tickets R60 pp for both Open Days as well as the combined ticket offer for Swan Lake and Carmen seasons booked through Mr Moagi on 011 877 6898 or email admin@saballettheatre.co.za

General bookings through Computicket and include 10% discounts for block bookings of ten tickets or more, plus student and pensioner discounts upon presentation of a valid student or pensioner’s card. Further information at www.saballettheatre.co.za or www.computicket.co.za