Fresh out of the Zoo

(Mei 2025)

10 – 29 June 2025 | Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino

Mzansi Ballet brings fire, flair, and fierce emotion to the stage this June with Carmen – a bold fusion of classical ballet, flamenco, and Pantsula that reimagines Bizet’s iconic opera for a new generation of dance lovers.

Directed by Dirk Badenhorst, Mzanzi Ballet’s director, and choreographed by José Manuel Buzón Ruiz (Spain) and Angela Revie, Carmen tells the timeless tale of love, obsession, and betrayal — but through a uniquely South African lens. This bold staging brings together a multicultural cast and creative team, each adding their own rhythmic and emotional signatures to Bizet’s iconic score.

The Carmen cast is a dynamic blend of international and local talent, featuring:

  • Angela Revie and Kiana Rose Prinsloo in the lead role of Carmen
  • Ariel Mejica (Cuba) and Jorge Wade (Mexico) alternating as Don José
  • Komani Hara, a professional flamenco dancer, as Escamillo

Adding to the cultural depth of the production are:

  • Pantsula dancers, bringing raw township energy to the streets of Seville
  • The renowned Montoya Spanish Dance Academy and Theatre, contributing authentic flamenco choreography and flair

This richly layered approach makes Carmen both visually breathtaking and emotionally resonant — a story of freedom, danger, and desire, told through a tapestry of movement styles.

“We want to tell powerful stories using movement,” says Dirk Badenhorst, “not only from the classical world but through the lens of South African experience. Carmen allows us to do this while celebrating diversity, dance, and drama on one stage.”

This production of Carmen is more than a ballet — it’s an immersive dance experience. Whether you’re a fan of classical ballet, flamenco, or something completely fresh, this is a production that will move you in every way.

Whether you’re a ballet enthusiast or a newcomer to the theatre, Carmen promises a passionate evening of artistry, choreography, and musical mastery.

SHOW DETAILS:
 📅 10–29 June 2025
 📍 Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino
 🎟️ Tickets available on WebTickets
 🍷 20% discount at The Hussar Grill with ticket
 👥 Corporate packages available

Follow Mzansi Ballet:
 📲 Instagram: @mzansiballet
 📘 Facebook: Mzansi Ballet
 🎵 TikTok: @Mzansi_ballet

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