The Joburg Ballet's latest production, Communication of Light, is an eclectic showcase featuring a range of styles and subjects from across continents. The evening begins with a lighthearted and dated Concerto for Charlie, which may appear twee at first glance but holds a knowing quality in its performance. The smooth, jazzy ballet numbers and Revlon-inspired outfits evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the piece subtly explores themes of racial antagonism and unity.
Director Dane Hurst's own Resonance adds another layer of complexity to the evening, shifting seamlessly between beauty and unease as it delves into South Africa's troubled history. The juxtaposition of prettiness and darkness is striking, making for a thought-provoking viewing experience.
Other highlights include a contemporary piece by Jorge Pérez Martínez, set to Spanish guitar, which showcases the talents of dancer Monike Cristina. Tumelo Lakana's poignant ritual prayer to his ancestors stands out as well, featuring South African steps in pointe shoes – a powerful tribute to tradition and heritage.
However, it is Dada Masilo's Salomé that truly steals the show. This urgent, energetic piece, created specifically for Joburg Ballet before Masilo's untimely passing, pulses with dramatic energy. Latoya Mokoena delivers an unforgettable performance as the seductive and powerful Salomé, bringing a sense of tragedy to the tragic finale.
The evening concludes on a somber note, leaving the audience eager to see where Hurst will lead this company in the future. As we bid farewell to Masilo's brilliant work, one can't help but feel a deep sadness at the loss – but also immense gratitude for the opportunity to experience his artistry and the incredible performances that Joburg Ballet has to offer.
Director Dane Hurst's own Resonance adds another layer of complexity to the evening, shifting seamlessly between beauty and unease as it delves into South Africa's troubled history. The juxtaposition of prettiness and darkness is striking, making for a thought-provoking viewing experience.
Other highlights include a contemporary piece by Jorge Pérez Martínez, set to Spanish guitar, which showcases the talents of dancer Monike Cristina. Tumelo Lakana's poignant ritual prayer to his ancestors stands out as well, featuring South African steps in pointe shoes – a powerful tribute to tradition and heritage.
However, it is Dada Masilo's Salomé that truly steals the show. This urgent, energetic piece, created specifically for Joburg Ballet before Masilo's untimely passing, pulses with dramatic energy. Latoya Mokoena delivers an unforgettable performance as the seductive and powerful Salomé, bringing a sense of tragedy to the tragic finale.
The evening concludes on a somber note, leaving the audience eager to see where Hurst will lead this company in the future. As we bid farewell to Masilo's brilliant work, one can't help but feel a deep sadness at the loss – but also immense gratitude for the opportunity to experience his artistry and the incredible performances that Joburg Ballet has to offer.
! The Joburg Ballet absolutely NAILED it with this eclectic production - from the jazzy vibes in Concerto for Charlie (love those Revlon-inspired outfits 
) to the hauntingly beautiful Resonance (Dane Hurst's direction is, like, WOW). And can we talk about Dada Masilo's Salomé? 
. The way they wove together themes of power, tragedy, and cultural heritage was SO masterfully done. I'm still thinking about it, like weeks later... the only thing that's left me feeling sad is the loss of Dada Masilo 
, but what an incredible tribute to his artistry. The Joburg Ballet just gets better and better 
that girl can ACT! Latoya Mokoena was absolutely breathtaking 
I loved how they included traditional South African steps in pointe shoes - it felt like a nod to their heritage 
. But what really got me was the mix of beauty and darkness throughout the performance 
! I mean, it's like they took all these different styles and subjects from around the world and mashed them together into one epic show 
! The way the director Dane Hurst weaves these themes of light and darkness together is just masterful – it's like he's taking us on this wild emotional ride 
. And I'm totally obsessed with Dada Masilo's Salomé, her performance was so intense and captivating 
! It's heartbreaking that he passed away, but what an incredible legacy to leave behind 
. I'm already counting down the days until the next show from Joburg Ballet... this is gonna be a wild ride 
It's just so sad. But at the same time, I feel like that's what makes his performance in Salomé so special – it's like we're all experiencing something truly raw and emotional 
And Dada Masilo's Salomé... oh my goodness, Latoya Mokoena is a force to be reckoned with. Her performance had me on the edge of my seat, I felt every ounce of her passion and intensity. It was like being transported to another world, one that's both beautiful and hauntingly dark at the same time. 
The way they paid tribute to South African heritage through Tumelo Lakana's piece was also really touching, it added such depth to the overall experience. I'm still reeling from the energy of this production, it left me in awe... and a little bit melancholic that we won't get to see Dada Masilo's work again on stage. 
. The way the choreographer weaves together beauty and darkness is just genius 
. I'm still reeling from the experience, it was like a punch to the feels 
but in the best possible way! Joburg Ballet slayed this production, can't wait for what's next 
. It's a really special thing, knowing that we can experience the beauty of human creativity even in the midst of sadness 
I'm still thinking about the energy and emotion that went into every single move... what an incredible tribute to Masilo's artistry 
. Definitely can't wait for Joburg Ballet's next production! 
but what really got me was the sense of loss - it's just not right that dada masilo isn't with us anymore 
anyhoo, can't wait to see where joburg ballet goes from here 
it was like watching a force of nature on stage 
the energy was electric and you could feel the pain and passion pouring out of her 
communication of light is literally everything 
dada masilo's salome though 
that piece was EVERYTHING 
i'm already counting down the days until their next show 
! I also loved how the director Dane Hurst wove together all these different styles and themes to create this super complex & thought-provoking show. It was like my brain was being pulled in a million directions but in the best way possible 
and can't even begin to describe how beautiful and powerful Tumelo Lakana's piece was, it gives me chills every time I think about it 
. I mean, who thought it was a good idea to put pointe shoes on dancers from different cultures? It's just gonna be awkward and uncomfortable to watch. And don't even get me started on the outfits - Revlon-inspired outfits? Really? 
. But I guess Tumelo Lakana's ritual prayer is kind of beautiful... in a weird, forced way. And Dada Masilo's Salomé is definitely intense - but it's just too sad that he passed away already 
. But hey, if you're into that sorta thing, go for it. I'll stick to watching Netflix or something 
.