MZANSI BALLET

Renowned choreographer Angela Revie collaborates with flamenco master José Manuel Buzón Ruiz to reimagine Carmen for Mzansi Ballet. Blending ballet, flamenco, and Pantsula, their dynamic choreography brings passion and authenticity to Bizet’s classic, infused with South Africa’s vibrant cultural influences.

Trained at Prodanza under Laura Alonso, Ariel has performed globally in productions like Dracula and Don Quixote, including a performance for Queen Isabel of England. He has also worked with the Cuban Ballet and taught award-winning students.

A dynamic and award-winning Pantsula dancer, Bafana captivates audiences with his intricate footwork, high-flying jumps, and infectious energy, sharing his deep passion for the art form in every performance.

An international gold medalist, has performed lead roles in ABBA: A Cinderella Story and The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe. He continues to dance with Mzansi Ballet while studying Linguistics and French at UFS.

With over 15 years of experience, this National School of Arts graduate has starred in Joburg Theatre musicals and Mzansi Ballet’s Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe and The Queen Show. She now leads in Carmen.

Leela-Lind, with a foundation in ballet and flamenco, was a featured dancer with Johannesburg Youth Ballet from 2015 to 2018 and trained under Alexandra le Maitre, earning distinctions in flamenco. A member of Bonegio Spanish Dance and Flamenkhoi, she has won multiple awards and graduated with distinction from Wits University in Economic Science.

A gifted Pantsula dancer, Nkosana has performed at the Gala Performance of the Ballet and Dance Expo and the One Kasi Arts and Culture Summit. In December 2025 brought his dynamic talent to Carmen.

Apprentice with Mzansi Ballet. Performed in ABBA, Queen, Neil Diamond, The Golden Rhino of Mapungubwe, and Carmen. Achievements include podium finishes at the South African and Cuban International Ballet Competitions, with scholarships to train in New York, Germany, and France.

Nkululeko "NKULIE" Nkambule's achievements include collaborating with top musicians like Focalistic, performing as a backing vocalist at the 9th Ingoma Awards, leading the song "Ungana" in the "Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe Ballet" project, and working with Wouter Kellerman at the 2022 BMW Awards.

A 16-year-old trained in Cuban ballet methodology since the age of four, is a passionate performer. She has danced in Swan Lake, The Golden Rhino of Mapungubwe, ABBA: A Cinderella Story, and Coppélia at prestigious theatres nationwide. She was a finalist in the prestigious SAIBC and received a scholarship to dance in Berlin where she gained valuable international experience .

South African dancer Mahlatse Sachane, trained in the Cecchetti methodology, brings his exceptional talent to Mzansi Ballet’s Carmen. With a career including Joburg Ballet, Cape Town City Ballet, and The Lion King, Mahlatse’s dynamic artistry adds depth and vibrancy to this powerful production.

A celebrated South African flamenco dancer, brought his exceptional talent to Mzansi Ballet’s "Carmen" (11–22 December 2024, Pieter Toerien Theatre). His dynamic flamenco artistry adds an authentic and passionate edge to this bold reimagining of Bizet’s classic tale.

Zinnia was born in the UK and trained under the teaching of Joel Morris, a former artist of Joburg Ballet and Mzansi Ballet. Zinnia has taken part in Coppelia and Sleeping Beauty with the English Youth Ballet, winning the prize for most promising senior dancer. She completed her degree in Ballet Performance at the School of Ballet Theatre UK. Since graduating she has joined Mzansi Ballet where she has performed in Neil Diamond, Cinderella and The Golden Rhino.

Somer, from Johannesburg, South Africa, began her career with the KMAD Dance Company. She earned a BFA from the Boston Conservatory and danced in Boston and New York City before joining Contemporary West Dance Theatre. She has performed at La Biennale di Venezia and worked with choreographers like Wayne McGregor, Aszure Barton, and Paul Taylor. Somer has also been a guest artist with the Royal Moscow Ballet and at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Gala. She has participated in programs at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, Alvin Ailey, and Gibney Dance and currently freelances in Johannesburg.

Hlogii Sehowa is a talented and versatile performing artist, excelling as a singer/songwriter, dancer, and actress. Her music, rooted in African spirituality, explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, aiming to inspire others to unlock their own greatness. She has worked on various notable projects, including being the lead vocalist for Joyful Sounds Gospel Group, performing in "The Crucible" and "Dance Resurrection," and directing her own music concert, "IYE." Additionally, Hlogii has been involved with the South African State Theatre Youth Choir and the Mzansi Ballet's "The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe."

Profesional Ballet dancer. Graduated from the Cuban Method Ballet School ESMDM (Escuela Superior de Música y Danza de Monterrey) in México. Versatile dancer that can do contemporary, lyrical jazz, Latin dances and Afro Cuban styles. Dancing in country’s like Ecuador, Spain, Colombia, Peru, Mexico and USA. Won scholarships in the Alvin Ailey Ballet school, Sarasota Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet School and Joffrey Ballet School

A 15-year-old dancer from Sandra Gibson Ballet Academy, Tshenolo has trained in ballet since the age of 4. She has completed RAD examinations up to Advanced 1, competed in numerous events, and attended the Royal Ballet Summer School in 2019. Her goal is to pursue a professional dance career after school.

A 14-year-old dancer from Sandra Gibson Ballet Academy, Manapo has trained in ballet since the age of 3, completing RAD exams up to Advanced Foundation. She competed at the Dance World Cup Finals in Prague and aspires to become a choreographer and director.

She began ballet at age 5 and has quickly become a standout talent. At just 12 yo, she won gold in both contemporary and classical ballet at the 2024 South African International Ballet Competition and earned a Top 12 Junior contemporary spot at the 2025 Youth American Grand Prix. Since July 2023, Mikayla has trained at the Mzansi Ballet Vocational School and performed in productions like Coppélia, The Golden Rhino of Mapungubwe, and The Queen Show. Known for her technical skill, dedication, and kind nature, she is an inspiring young artist with a bright future ahead.

Simnikiwe is a talented and driven 12-year-old from Benoni, South Africa, excelling both in academics and dance. A Grade 7 student at Arbor Primary School and a prefect, she demonstrates strong leadership and discipline. With an average above 80%, she ranks in the top 10 of her grade. Simnikiwe began her dance journey at age 11, finding solace in ballet after the passing of her mother during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite starting later than most, her dedication earned her 2nd place in an eisteddfod competition. She’s now expanding her skills to jazz, impressing her coach with her enthusiasm and natural talent.

Unathi Nkuta, a 13-year-old ballet dancer, has been performing in recitals and shows since the age of six. They have earned Level 1 and 2 awards from the American Academy of Ballet Performance and received a High Merit RAD Level 2 award in Grade 4 ballet exams. Recently, Unathi was part of the cast for Mzansi Ballet's The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe in Bloemfontein.

Ofentse began ballet at six, debuting at seven and performing in top South African theatres. She has won several competitions, including the East Rand Dance Festival (2018) and SABOD (2019), and was nominated Dancer of the Year in 2023 and 2024. Mentored by Dirk Badenhorst, she placed fourth at the SAIBC competition in 2024. Known for her dedication and grace, she admires role models like Misty Copeland. Her achievements continue to inspire with her exceptional talent.

Thoriso's journey began at Addnum Global School, registered as Addnum Academy with the Department of Education, in Kempton Park, where she started learning at the tender age of 2. As a member of the EM Foundation, her talent was recognized and nurtured, providing her with opportunities to grow and shine.

Hannah Payton Izzett, a talented 10-year-old dancer and student, has been passionate about dance since the age of three, excelling in ballet and modern dance. She performed with Mzansi Ballet in October 2023 and has showcased her skills in productions like Coppélia and Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe. Known for her determination and energy, she earned Cultural Colours at school from the age of 8, reflecting her commitment to both the arts and academics. With a competitive spirit and focus, Hannah continues to pursue her dreams with enthusiasm.

Onthatile joined Manzsi Ballet in 2021, driven by a lifelong passion for ballet. She continues to inspire audiences by pushing boundaries with every performance. Inspirational Message: Ballet is a way to tell a story with your body, where each dance is a new adventure. Every great dancer started just like you, and with each practice, you're closer to your dreams. So, embrace the music and let your imagination soar you're creating magic! ?

It sounds like Araliya Wood is an inspiring young ballet dancer with a bright future ahead! Being a vocational school student at Mzansi Ballet and working with a private instructor like Michaela Grobler shows dedication and talent. The production of Coppélia is also an exciting accomplishment, as it's one of the most beloved classical ballets.