Johannesburg’s ballet lovers can look forward to a spectacular spring as Joburg Ballet rolls out its new season of dance at the Joburg Theatre from 3 to 12 October. The much-anticipated season kicks off with the South African National Dance Trust (SANDT) Spring Gala on 3 October, a red-carpet affair that brings together a formidable line-up of talent, including Royal Ballet principals Sarah Lamb and Ryoichi Hirano, first artist Lara Turk, the WGRUV Dance Company, and the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Eddie Clayton.

The gala marks a rare opportunity for South African audiences to experience celebrated works such as George Balanchine’s Diamonds Pas de Deux, Christopher Wheeldon’s Within the Golden Hour, and Sir Frederick Ashton’s Five Brahms Waltzes. Homegrown talent will also take centre stage with original pieces from local icons like Veronica Paeper, Sean Bovim, Adele Blank, and Dane Hurst.

On 4 and 5 October, all eyes will be on the world premiere of Celestial Bodies, an ambitious new work by Naledi Award winner Mario Gaglione, produced in collaboration with the Universe on Stage team. The season concludes with First Light from 9 to 12 October, featuring Act 3 of Raymonda, Paeper’s tribute Concerto for Charlie, Bruno Miranda’s Classics of Spain, and fresh works from rising choreographers Tumelo Lekana and Chloé Blair.

Tickets range from R130 to R700, with special discounts available, making this spring season accessible to a wide audience.