Cuban ballet school auditions coming up
BRAAMFONTEIN - As part of Joburg Ballet's 20/20/5 celebrations, the company will host auditions for the Joburg Ballet Cuban School this month.
The celebrations mark not only 20 years of democracy in South Africa, but also 20 years of bilateral relations with Cuba, and five years of the South Africa-Cuba ballet partnership.
“After three years of growing from strength to strength, [the school] has developed into a centre of excellence for preparing dancers for the professional stage, with students taking part in [the company’s] full-length productions,” said spokesperson Lindsay McDonald.
“The school provides a safe and structured environment for children to develop professionally, [and introduces] them to the joy and benefits of classical ballet while exposing them to a potential career in the performing arts.”
Pupils receive solid classical ballet training, as well as exposure to other industry careers, such as lighting design, arts management, and costume design.
“The historic generosity of the Cubans’ willingness to give of their time and knowledge is significant, as South Africa and Cuba benefit from a healthy exchange in many industries,” he said.
The company’s dancers and teachers work with the pupils, teaching new and valuable skills and knowledge.
The school allows access to training that Cubans receive in Havana and works to secure a continuing path of improvement as Cuban teachers share their knowledge in South Africa.
Encouraged by former Cuba president, Fidel Castro in collaboration with ballerina Alicia Alonso, the National Ballet School of Cuba developed a unique ballet training method that is used at the school.
Many Cuban-trained students have won international fame, among them Royal Ballet star Carlos Acosta.
“As a cultural inter-change and education programme, the school aims to develop true integration and inspire the youth of South Africa,” said McDonald.
Children between the ages of six and 11 may audition. Because the auditions will entail a physical assessment, those auditioning will need to dress appropriately.
Girls should wear leotards, and boys T-shirts, ballet tights, and ballet shoes, although any tight clothing will be permitted, as the panel will need to see the child’s body in motion.
The auditions will take place on 18 October at Gypsey 1 Studio, Joburg Theatre, Hoofd Street, Braamfontein, from 10am until 4pm.
Details: 011 877 6898; www.joburgballet.com; keke@joburgballet.com
