A tale of passion, betrayal and forgiveness, Giselle centres on one of the most demanding and beloved roles in classical ballet. It’s a story that begins in pastoral innocence and ends in the moonlit world of the Wilis – ghostly spirits of women wronged in love – and it remains one of ballet’s most enduring works.
Giselle makes a fitting launch for Joburg Ballet’s anniversary year. The ballet was first performed by the company back when it was known as the South African Ballet Theatre (SABT) and has remained a cornerstone of the repertoire ever since.
This new staging is by acclaimed South African-born ballerina Angela Malan, now based in Europe, where she is widely respected as a ballet teacher, coach, and producer. She’s joined by Joburg Ballet’s ballet mistress Kim Vieira, alongside assistant producers Nicole Ferreira-Dill and Karen Beukes MacDonald – both of whom had distinguished careers as principal dancers with the company, making this production something of a homecoming.
Sharing the title role of Giselle across the season are principal dancers Tammy Higgins (in her role debut), Ryoko Yagyu, and Monike Cristina. Dancing opposite them as Albrecht are Revil Yon with Higgins, Ivan Domiciano (role debut) with Yagyu, and Bruno Miranda (role debut) with Cristina.
Gabriella Ghiaroni makes her role debut as the formidable Queen of the Wilis, while Mario Gaglione steps into the role of Hilarion for the first time. Beyond the lead roles, Giselle also offers a showcase for Joburg Ballet’s supporting cast and a powerful corps de ballet, whose appearance in the spectral second act is as chilling as it is beautiful.
Book tickets for Giselle – and meet the dancers
Perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day, the season runs from Thu, Feb 12 – Sun, Feb 15, 2026. Tickets are R250 – R670 p.p. Book your seats now.Ahead of this staging, Joburg Ballet hosts an open day at its studios on Sat, Feb 7, 2026 from 10:00 – 13:00, where you'll be able to meet the dancers and watch the company in class and rehearsal. To book your open-day tickets (R150 p.p.) call +27 11 877 6898 or email futhi@joburgballet.com.
After its Johannesburg run, Giselle heads to the South African State Theatre in Pretoria from Fri, Feb 20 – Sun, Feb 22, 2026.
