Swan Lake to open in Joburg for limited August run

The production follows a previous run of The Nutcracker at the same venue in December 2025, which organisers said sold out. Tickets for the upcoming performances are available through Webtickets.

The ballet, set to music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, tells the story of Prince Siegfried and Odette, a princess placed under a curse that turns her into a swan by day. The work is widely regarded as one of the most recognised pieces in the classical ballet repertoire.

The Johannesburg staging will feature a company of around 50 performers. Choreography and stage direction are by Elena Glurjidze, a former principal dancer with the English National Ballet. Costume design is by Marcel Meyer, with set design by Michael Mitchell, both of whom also worked on The Nutcracker production.

Debbie Turner, chief executive and artistic director of Cape Ballet Africa, said the company was returning to Johannesburg following a strong audience response to its previous production.

“Having had such a brilliant response from Johannesburg audiences for The Nutcracker last year, our wonderful dancers cannot wait to present another hugely popular ballet in Swan Lake,” she said.

Global Star Events chief executive Simon Bryce, said the production was expected to draw strong audience interest.

“There are certain shows that are always exciting to bring to the stage, because you know the audience is going to respond enthusiastically. Swan Lake is so iconic and so loved and this is a fantastic new production. We know fans are going to love it,” he said.

Performances will include matinee, afternoon and evening shows throughout the run. The production is recommended for audiences aged five and above.