By Uendjizuvira Kandanga

Ballet is often thought of as being quite tedious. But as someone watching this dance form for the first time, I found SALT utterly captivating and mesmerising. One sees the more ethereal side to it – like watching fairies float lightly across the stage, their bodies weightless.

SALT has three parts, with three poignant, sleek, stylish, celebratory, and percussive ballet works by Kirsten Isenberg, the highly acclaimed choreographer Mthuthuzeli November, and Michelle Reid. Each chapter carries its own energy, drawing you in deeper.

Chapter 1 begins with a long piano interlude before 12 ballet dancers dressed in soft pink grace the stage. Their movements are in perfect sync, and they are exceptionally light and brisk on their feet. The two male dancers reach for the female lead and embrace her, but never fully grasp her. They envelop each other, but not quite touching; you can see some reservation, alluding to hesitation between the men. You inwardly sigh in relief the moment the three hug.

The music in Chapter 2 is a surprising shift, carrying an irresistible beat. Now the male dancer takes centre stage in a solo, with his movements carrying a powerful yet elegant flair.

Chapter 3 is a personal favourite, set in red lights and starting off with a duo whose movements are playful and flirtatious. As they move, the men exude a Casanova-like energy, as they all have a sassiness to them. You can tell the dancers are having fun and enjoying themselves here, sliding energetically across the stage.SALT makes one realise ballet is an incredible art form rich in expression and storytelling. It has set an extremely high bar in the way I see ballet now. Every performer was mesmerising, and every chapter brought a unique story through interpretation. It’s safe to say, SALT is an unforgettable introduction to ballet.