The Community Development Department of the City of Johannesburg expresses its commitment to the revitalisation of the Inner City through the support it gives to programmes facilitated by, amongst others, the Joburg City Theatres (JCT). These programmes are intended to bring about social cohesion, celebrate the diversity and dynamism of the City of Johannesburg, and also promote inclusivity.
As part of the Inner City Renewal Progamme, the Joburg Theatre – one of the three theatres managed by JCT will be re-launching the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) and the Joburg Ballet in various venues around the City Centre to afford equal opportunity to access for the people of Johannesburg
The relaunch of JPO and Joburg Ballet forms part of the City’s contribution to target deprived spaces and communities through Arts and Culture. To give effect to this, the City has contributed R10 million and R8 million to JPO and Joburg Ballet respectively over a period of three years. The funding is to be used to roll out programmes that will attract and entertain the diverse people of the City of Joburg through the creative arts.
Formed in the year 2000, JPO is Johannesburg’s only Philharmonic Orchestra. It was formed as a response to popular demand by music lovers in Gauteng. To date, JPO has offered, among others the popular ‘Queen: The Concert’, ‘The Joburg Pops’, ‘La Traviata’, and ‘La Boheme’. In the re-launch, JPO will be offering music lovers a special concert programme featuring internationally renowned artists. This is an event not to be missed.
Joburg Ballet is home to top South African dancers and choreographers, offering from the classic to contemporary dance. Joburg Ballet strives to always bring an art form that is creative and fresh.
“We are extremely honoured and priviledged to be associated with JPO and Joburg Ballet, as both these organistaions seek to bring inclusivity and social cohesion through creative arts. We are exceptionally proud of their continued effort to attract high-profile and world renowned artists such to bring joy to the people of Joburg”, said Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development, Cllr Nonhlanhla Sifumba.