WGRUV is a South African dance company dedicated to blending classical technique with contemporary narratives and cultural storytelling. Its latest offering, Art Effect, explores the interconnectedness and impact of art, music, and dance in a captivating stage performance that moves the heart and challenges the mind.
Art Effect features four distinct choreographers: Founder and artistic director of WGRUV Dance Company Holly Gruver and assistant director Lex Gruver; senior dancer with the Vuyani Dance Company Roseline Wilkins; previous principal dancer at the New York City Ballet, Lauren Lovette; and resident choreographer at Pacific Northwest Ballet and artist in residence at Sarasota Ballet, Jessica Lang. Together, they explore movement as a powerful artistic statement, with fine artist Great Joy and live percussionists adding to the experience
What's on the programme
This unusual performance unfolds over four distinct pieces:1. Vivace Motifs by Jessica Lang: A refined ballet for six dancers set to Handel and Corelli, evoking Baroque-inspired grace.
2. Postures by Lex and Holly Gruver: Inspired by the charcoal artistry of Great Joy, this piece explores diverse human expressions of hope through classical and contemporary movement.
3. Game On by Lauren Lovette: A bold neoclassical duet capturing the spirit of playful competition and athleticism.
4. Rosie by Roseline Wilkins: WGRUV’s debut in African contemporary vocabulary, this piece threads Wilkins’ journey of hope into a South African narrative, enhanced by live percussion.
Where to see this show
There are three legs of this performance:Fri, Oct 10 – Sun, Oct 12, 2025 at the UJ Arts & Culture Venue, Kingsway Campus.
Fri, Oct 30 – Sun, Nov 2, 2025 at the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex in Gqeberha.
Wed, Nov 5 – Fri, Nov 7, 2025 at the Roodepoort Theatre in the West Rand.
Tickets are R99 for children under 12, R155 for groups of 10 or more, R170 for pensioners, and R220 per person for general admission. Book your seats here.
