This April, UJ Arts & Culture, in partnership with Joburg Ballet and Universe on Stage, presents Celestial Bodies at the Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre (UJ Arts Centre).

Choreographed by Mario Gaglione, Celestial Bodies draws inspiration from the rhythms, patterns and energy of the universe, translating these ideas into movement that is both precise and fluid. The work explores the relationship between bodies in motion and the unseen forces that shape our world, creating a performance that moves between the vast scale of the cosmos and the intimacy of human experience.

Originally presented in 2025 to critical acclaim, Celestial Bodies returns in 2026 with renewed depth and perspective. The production forms part of Joburg Ballet’s ongoing commitment to developing new work that expands the language of ballet while engaging contemporary themes and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Developed in collaboration with Universe on Stage, the production combines contemporary ballet with live music and narration, creating a layered performance experience that blends artistic expression with ideas drawn from science and the natural world. This collaboration brings together, physicist Dr Luca Pontiggia and composer Yasheen Modi, whose work explores the intersection between science, music and performance.

“Hosting Celestial Bodies in partnership with Joburg Ballet reflects the University of Johannesburg’s ongoing commitment to presenting world-class artistic work while creating meaningful access to the performing arts for diverse audiences,” says Pieter Jacobs, Head of UJ Arts & Culture. “Productions of this calibre not only enrich Johannesburg’s cultural landscape but also play an important role in preserving and evolving the art of ballet within a contemporary South African context. By bringing artists, students and audiences together through shared cultural experiences, initiatives such as this strengthen cultural infrastructure and safeguard artistic heritage. Our partnership with Joburg Ballet further underscores the value of collaboration in advancing the creative sector.”

Dates and Times: Saturday, 18 April – 14:00 and 19:00 | Sunday, 19 April – 14:00
Venue: Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre, UJ Arts Centre

Book your Tickets Now! : https://www.quicket.co.za/events/365050-celestial-bodies/?ref=organiser-profile#/

Surprise Nkomo
surprisen@uj.ac.za
011 559 1315
University of Johannesburg
https://arts.uj.ac.za/whats-on/celestial-bodies-takes-the-stage-at-the-uj-arts-centre/