Following the success of its debut performances in Cape Town last month, the WGRUV Dance Company, South Africa’s newest contemporary ballet dance company brought its 3rd Season of 2024, presenting “Trilogy of Notes – A Symphony of Dance” to three theatres across Gauteng. After recent performances in Pretoria and Roodepoort the show moves to the Lesedi Theatre at the Joburg Theatre complex with 7pm performances this Wednesday, 04 December and Thursday, 05 December. The Friday performance on 6 December is a 3pm matinee. Tickets are on sale at www.wgruvdance.com
WGRUV recently enchanted Cape Town, Pretoria and Roodepoort audiences and delighted critics with its presentation of “Trilogy of Notes,” a triple bill that delivers class, culture, and breathtaking musical landscapes. The company, known for its innovative and captivating dance performances, creates hope through soulful artistic storytelling, and this season is no exception. “Excellent teamwork all-round. WGRUV, please visit Cape Town again,” raved the Weekend Special while on Facebook Tania Bownes said the show was “Just Brilliant” and Alison Fern Pappas summed up her thoughts in a Facebook post stating “It was pure class… ballet in its truest form.” Bruce Dennill of pARTicipate says “the style of WGRUV offer a pleasing alternative to more traditional forms of either ballet or contemporary dance”.
Opening the program, for the first time in South Africa, Jessica Lang’s Vivace Motifs establishes a classical narrative to the baroque music of Handel and Corelli. Lang’s work, celebrated for its visual beauty and emotional depth, was restated by Rachel Secrest from New York and will set the stage for an evening filled with elegance and artistic expression.
The second piece, “Permission to Fall,” an original creation by chorographic artist and Doug Varone dancer, Brad Beakes joined WGRUV in residency for two weeks creating with the dancers, this contemporary narrative which invites reflection on its evocative themes, providing a rich, contemplative experience to music by Ryan Lott and Ymusic.
The evening culminates in the 1950’s era with a dynamic piece by former Paul Taylor dancer and creator, Michael Trusnovec. This original work will feature live musician Emmanuel Paul playing the Bass notes! While Michael’s dance performance work has been likened to the timeless charm of Fred Astaire by dance magazine, only select works allow a glimpse into this impact as the WGRUV dancers emulate the free and smooth lines he models. Featuring the music of June Christy, Trusnovec’s work promises to transport audiences to a space of pure delight for a romantic date or artistic family outing not to disappoint.
Adding to the excitement, WGRUV is collaborating with Joburg Ballet this season, welcoming Marlon Sales to the stage. Additionally, the company proudly introduces its newest member, Ruan Galdino, whose talents shine in this stellar lineup alongside WGRUV’s talented and soul-filled dancers.
Every step, every note, in creating ‘Trilogy of Notes’ has been meticulously crafted to ensure that each performance resonates deeply with each person in the audience – something that touches the heart and stays with you long after the final applause.
“Trilogy of Notes” is an invitation to experience the highs and lows, the rhythms and melodies, and the profound beauty of dance in a performance that transcends the ordinary. WGRUV’s commitment to creating hope through soulful artistic storytelling is evident in this ambitious and emotionally rich program. Join WGRUV Dance Company at the Lesedi Theatre for an evening of unparalleled dance and let the “Trilogy of Notes” enchant you! Don’t miss out, book now at www.wgruvdance.com
