The 2024 South African International Ballet Competition (SAIBC) held at Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre was nothing short of mesmerizing. Ballerinas from around the world gathered to compete in both classical and contemporary ballet, showcasing their talents on a global stage.

Competition Highlights:

This year, 88 competitors graced the stage, each with the hope of advancing to the finals. It was a remarkable experience to compete against some of the best dancers in the world. Among them was the extraordinary Crystal Huang, winner of the Prix de Lausanne and YAGP. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would have the honor of sharing a stage with her. We participated in daily two-hour master classes, learning from the masters of ballet—an indescribable experience.

Achievements and Honors:

Being announced as a finalist at SAIBC 2024 was a moment of pure joy and validation. Performing at the Stars of Tomorrow and Stars of Today gala evenings during South Africa’s inaugural Dance Expo further highlighted the journey’s significance.

The gala evenings brought together the finest dancers from various genres across the country. A highlight for me was meeting the Prima Ballerina of the Dutch National Ballet, who also performed at the gala.

It was an honor to meet Mr. Gayton McKenzie, our new Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, both in Cape Town and at the expo. The minister spoke passionately about the future of the arts in our country, promising that dance and other art forms will receive better attention and that we can look forward to positive change.

Our students will state proudly that they went after their dreams, sought out and nourished robust, life-giving relationships and fulfilled their purpose in their own unique way.

Personal Journey and Gratitude:

As a student of The Mountain Cambridge School, balancing academic excellence with my passion for ballet has been a challenging yet rewarding journey.

This year has been filled with opportunities that I have embraced wholeheartedly. In February, I danced in the Golden Rhino of Mapungubwe at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town. In April, I spent two weeks at the Staatliche Balletschule in Berlin, Germany, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience. The prestigious SAIBC at Artscape from July 11th to 14th, followed by recognition in the gala evenings in front of the most important people in the industry, has been an incredible journey. I can only say thank you to God – I am truly blessed and grateful.

I am now looking forward to dancing the lead in the renowned Coppélia at the Pieter Toerien Theatre in Monte Casino in August and, last but not least, writing my IGCSE exams.

Thank you to Mrs. Carolina van Heerden and all the teachers at The Mountain Cambridge School for their unwavering support in helping me keep up with my academics while pursuing my passion.

Thank you to Mzansi Ballet, my home away from home, for providing the best teachers who support my dreams.

With gratitude and anticipation, I eagerly embrace what lies ahead in both dance and academics.

“In His time, I, the Lord, will make it happen.”

Yours in Ballet,
Carmi Landsberg