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Saturday, January 24, 2026

PRIVATE PRESLEY – THE BALLET


Mzansi Ballet presents Private Presley – The Ballet, Sean Bovim’s powerful reimagining of the life of Elvis Presley, which comes to Durban’s Milkwood Theatre at Northlands High, Durban from February 13 to 15.

The production features international star Jorge Wade as Elvis, alongside South African Prima Ballerina Angela Revie as Priscilla, in an evocative ballet which offers an emotionally charged tribute to the global cultural icon.

Exploring love, fame, and Presley’s military years, Private Presley takes audiences on a powerful journey through the triumphs, relationships, and tribulations of the King of Rock 'n Roll. This newly reimagined version of the popular ballet originally created by Sean Bovim offers a fresh and emotionally resonant perspective on the life and legend of Elvis Presley.

 

(Jorge Wade & Kiana Rose Prinsloo. Pic supplied)

The ballet explores the complexities of Presley’s personal life, delving into his military service - reflected in the title Private Presley - and his intimate relationships, especially the women who deeply influenced his journey.

International ballet sensation Jorge Wade of Mexico stars in the title role of Elvis Presley, while South African Prima Ballerina Angela Revie brings to life the role of Priscilla Presley with grace and passion. The Mzansi Ballet company will be joined by dancers from Taryn Makaab’s studio.

The production features costume design by David Hutt, a long-time collaborator with Mzansi Ballet. Known for his detailed and imaginative work, Hutt has been tasked with capturing the vibrant spirit and style of Elvis’s life and times through his costume creations.

"Doing Sean Bovim's Private Presley has been a privilege, and it is a wonderful addition to the Mzansi Ballet repertoire," says Dirk Badenhorst, Director of Mzansi Ballet.

Founded in 2017 by Dirk Badenhorst, Mzansi Ballet is a unique dance company that identifies and cultivates young South African talent. The company brings together these emerging artists with seasoned professionals to create performances that authentically convey South African stories while respecting the cultural and historical aspects of classical ballet.

Notable productions by Mzansi Ballet include Benghazi, When Ballet Meets Jazz, The Queen Show, The ABBA Show, The Christmas Show, Swan Lake, The Neil Diamond Show, and The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe. Their core mission is to nurture artistic expression, foster cultural appreciation, and engage communities through the art of dance. Mzansi Ballet is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating South Africa's rich dance heritage, both within its own practice and through active participation in the wider African cultural dialogue.

On Saturday morning, February 14, the regionals for the SA Ballet Competition, will once more be hosted at the Milkwood Theatre.

Tickets R200 (R150 pensioners and students)

Performance list:

Friday 13 February @ 19h00

Saturday 14 February @ 15h00 and 19h00

Sunday 15 February @ 15h00

 

Tickets are available at Webtickets. Don’t miss this unforgettable tribute to a cultural icon, brought to life through the beauty and power of ballet.

Safe parking on field, entrance via gate next to Astro on Newport Ave.

Strictly no admission once doors have closed.