the gold rhino of mapungubwe by mzansi ballet
The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe by Mzansi Ballet (2 Acts, 96 mins)
A full-length ballet that weaves ancient myth and legend into a classical score enriched by African traditions, indigenous instruments, and a mixed choir.
- Devised and Produced by Dirk Badenhorst
- Choreographer: Angela Revie
- Composer, Music Arranger and Musical Director: Mark Cheyne
- Collaboration with multiple co-composers including 3-time Grammy Award winner Wouter Kellerman and indigenous African music instrumentalist Mpho Molikeng
- Gauteng Chamber Orchestra & The South African State Theatre Youth Choir conducted by Eddie Clayton
- Set & Production Design: Andrew Botha
- Costume Designer: David Tlale
- Assistant Choreographer: Mdu Nhlapo
- Premiered 26 April 2023, South African State Theatre, Pretoria. Subsequent performances in Cape Town (2024), Johannesburg (2024), Bloemfontein (2025) & Lugano, Switzerland (2025).
“From our very first conversation, it was clear that Mark had not only the technical skill to deliver high quality work but also the emotional sensitivity and intellectual curiosity needed to engage deeply with a project that was as historically and culturally rich as The Gold Rhino. We came to him with a concept grounded in the mystery, symbolism and legacy of Mapungubwe and he listened with both attention and imagination.” Angela Revie, Choreographer

“The refining process was a true collaboration. Mark was open to feedback, flexible without ever compromising his artistic integrity, and tireless in his attention to detail. He revised drafts with care and insight, always moving closer to a sound world that captured exactly what the work needed - sometimes even before I could articulate it myself.” Angela Revie, Choreographer
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“He was always receptive to feedback from myself and the choreographers, consistently collaborative while maintaining his artistic integrity. In many cases, his first drafts were spot on, making the process not only efficient but almost magical.” Dirk Badenhorst, Director, Mzansi Ballet

“The final score exceeded my expectations. It’s a composition that feels at once rooted in something ancient and entirely cinematic, evoking a deep sense of place and mystery while also carrying emotional nuance and narrative power. It elevated the work profoundly, and audiences consistently comment on how the music lingers with them.” Angela Revie, Choreographer








