Johannesburg audiences can look forward to an inspiring winter dance season as WGRUV Dance Company presents Highlights: Tracing the Line, a new production that brings together acclaimed choreographic works from South Africa and abroad.
Following the success of Juxtapose, the opening production in WGRUV's 2026 season, the independent contemporary ballet company will return to the stage with a programme designed to showcase some of the most compelling voices in contemporary and classical ballet. Highlights will debut at the Roodepoort Theatre from 9 to 12 July before moving to the UJ Arts Centre from 20 to 23 August.
A Celebration of Choreographic Excellence
Described as a celebration of movement, emotion, and artistic storytelling, Highlights combines audience favourites with new works, performed by WGRUV's talented company of dancers.
The production features choreography by internationally renowned artists including Jessica Lang, whose innovative neo-classical works have earned global recognition; Jesse Obremski, known for his emotionally charged movement language; and Michael Trusnovec, celebrated for creating works of sculptural beauty and quiet power.
The programme also showcases original choreography from WGRUV founders Holly Gruver and Lex Gruver, whose creative partnership continues to shape the company's distinctive artistic voice.
Together, the works explore the expressive possibilities of the human body through line, colour, weight, and movement, creating an immersive theatrical experience designed to resonate long after the final curtain call.
Dance That Connects
According to WGRUV Artistic Director Holly Gruver, the production aims to create a meaningful connection between performers and audiences.
"We wanted to offer our audiences an experience at the theatre that fills them," says Gruver. "Each work traces something – a gesture, a story, an emotion – and together they form a line from the stage to the heart. This is dance with purpose. Dance that leaves you more alive than when you arrived."
The result is a programme that balances technical excellence with emotional depth, inviting audiences to experience dance not only as a visual art form, but as a powerful means of storytelling.
Building on a Successful Season
Founded by Holly Gruver, WGRUV Dance Company has established itself as Johannesburg's contemporary ballet company, creating world-class productions that communicate hope through movement and artistic expression.
Based in Bryanston, the company collaborates with South African and international choreographers to develop original works that combine technical precision with cultural relevance. The 2026 season is built around the theme "One Line. Three Visions. Infinite Humanity", encompassing the productions Juxtapose, Highlights, and the upcoming Angels In Africa.
For audiences who enjoyed Juxtapose earlier this year, Highlights offers another opportunity to experience the company's commitment to contemporary ballet that is both accessible and artistically ambitious.
Educational Opportunities for Young Dancers
In addition to public performances, WGRUV will host special dress rehearsal performances for students and school groups in both Johannesburg runs.
Taking place on the Thursday afternoon before opening performances, these sessions include access to a live rehearsal followed by a question-and-answer session with members of the company. Tickets cost R50 per student, providing young dancers and performing arts students with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with professional performers. Contact [email protected]
Performance Information
Venue: Roodepoort Theatre
Dates & Show Times:
Thursday, 9 July at 15h00 Dress rehearsal. Book at [email protected]
Friday, 10 July at 19h00
Saturday, 11 July at 15h00
Sunday, 12 July at 15h00
Ticket prices:
All performances: R220, R250, R280, R300
Groups: 5-plus tickets – 10% discount. Ten-plus tickets – 20% discount. Valid only on first two prices.
Bookings: webtickets.co.za
Venue: UJ Arts Centre
Dates & Show Times:
Thursday, 20 August at 15h00 Dress rehearsal. Book at [email protected]
Friday, 21 August at 19h00
Saturday, 22 August at 15h00
Sunday, 23 August at 15h00
Ticket prices:
All performances: R220, R250, R280, R300
Groups: 5-plus tickets – 10% discount. Ten-plus tickets – 20% discount. Valid only on first two prices.
Bookings: webtickets.co.za