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Joburg Ballet’s DreamScapes Set to Celebrate South African Artistry
Joburg Ballet is gearing up for its latest production, DreamScapes, a showcase of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity. The highly anticipated production will debut at Roodepoort Theatre on Friday, running until April 6.
Tammy Higgins, who was promoted to principal dancer last year, is preparing to deliver a standout performance. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledges the weight of responsibility that comes with her title.
“Every dancer aspires to this moment. It’s what we train for, but being a principal means you must lead by example and inspire younger dancers,” Higgins said.
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The production features a blend of classical and contemporary works. Les Sylphides, set to the music of Frédéric Chopin, represents traditional ballet, while The Underworld & Elsewhere, choreographed by Kitty Phetla, offers a fresh perspective. The programme concludes with Resonance, a jazz-infused piece inspired by South End, District Six, and Sophiatown, choreographed by interim artistic director Dane Hurst.
Higgins’ passion for ballet has been lifelong, something her mother, Glynis, recognized from the start.
“If it wasn’t for my mom, I wouldn’t be here. She has always loved ballet, working as a private dresser and making costumes for dancers,” she shared.
With 33 years of experience, including time spent with the Hungarian and Croatian national ballets, Higgins brings a wealth of expertise to the stage. Her journey in ballet has been shaped by resilience, guided by her mother’s advice: “You need to have thick skin.”
Picture: Braodway World South Africa
For Higgins, ballet is more than just technical mastery—it’s an art form rooted in emotion and storytelling.
“Social media often highlights tricks—how many turns or jumps a dancer can do—but that’s not the essence of ballet,” she explained. “It’s about expression, passion, and connecting with the audience.”
Following DreamScapes, Higgins will embark on a national tour for Swan Lake, a collaboration between Joburg Ballet and Cape Town City Ballet. Despite her extensive career, retirement isn’t on the horizon.
“My heart will always be in it. Dancing is a way of life, and I love performing. My body will tell me when it’s time to stop,” she said. “If I ever move on, I’d love to be a safari guide or work in hospitality—I believe in following your passions.”
With DreamScapes, Joburg Ballet continues to push artistic boundaries, merging tradition with innovation in a performance that celebrates South Africa’s rich dance heritage.
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Sourced:Times Live
