Nebula Cinemas has two superb venues in Johannesburg, so you are spoiled for choice this Christmas. Their first venue is located in the heart of the East Rand in Benoni. A small intimate venue, this niche cinema is the perfect place to unwind and soak in some culture over the festive period. But, if it's grandeur you are after, take a trip to the CineCentre at Killarney Mall. The new home of Nebula Cinemas, this state of the art cinema complex offers luxury seating, gourmet snacks and a surround-sound experience.
Both Nebula Cinemas will be screening the best of the Royal Opera House and the Royal Ballet productions over December. Here are our top picks to see this Christmas:
Concerto/Enigma Variations/Raymonda Act III
Kick off your festive watching season with a triple bill at the Nebula Micro Theatre in Benoni. A showcase of Royal Ballet heritage and the quintessential style of British ballet, Petipa’s Raymonda Act III is a Russian classical ballet summarized in one act, full of sparkle and precise technique. Ashton’s Enigma Variations is quintessentially British in every way – from its score by Elgar and period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, to Ashton’s signature style. Concerto, MacMillan’s fusion of classical technique with a contemporary mind, completes a programme that shows the breadth of The Royal Ballet’s heritage.
When Is It?
Sunday, 08 December 2019 at 14:00 - 17:15.
Where Is It?
Village Walk Retirement Village, 24 Kirschner and Dickinson Rd, Benoni North AH, Benoni, Gauteng.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R100 per person. Book yours here.
The Merry Wives of Windsor
Shakespeare's epic comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor is headed to Nebula Cinemas at Killarney Mall. Watch as Sir John Falstaff plans to hustle his way to comfortable retirement by seducing the wives of two wealthy men. But, it’s the women of Windsor who pull the strings in this story. A merry comedy of marriage, wealth, jealousy and lies, this is a must-see for the Christmas season.
When Is It?
Sunday, 08 December 2019 at 13:00.
Where Is It?
CineCentre Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Road, Killarney, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R100 per person. Book yours here.
The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker Ballet is quintessential Christmas-time family entertainment. With all the magic and wonder it holds, this ballet sweeps both children and adults up into Clara's world. Her journey to the Land of Sweets brings with it some of the most familiar of all ballet moments, such as the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Waltz of the Flowers.
Peter Wright’s production for The Royal Ballet keeps true to the spirit of this Russian ballet classic, with period details and dancing snowflakes, matching Tchaikovsky’s much-loved music with breathtaking performances.
Don't miss this Christmas classic!
The Nutcracker Ballet will be screened at both the Benoni venue and at CineCentre Killarney. The dates for these venues are as follows:
Benoni - Saturday, 21 December 2019 at 14:00 and Sunday, 22 December 2019 at 14:00.
Killarney - Sunday, 15 December 2019 at 13:00; Sunday, 22 December 2019 at 13:00 and Sunday, 29 December 2019 at 13:00.
Tickets cost R100 per person for both venues.
For More Information
Visit the Nebula Cinemas website for more information about these shows. You can also follow them on Facebook or Twitter for event updates.
Details: 011 425 2371 | [email protected]
Joburg Theatre
The Mandela Stage at Joburg Theatre is one of the largest in the city. Seating 2,000 audience members, the Mandela Theatre is ideal for opera, musicals and ballet. The red velvet embellishments of this theatre similarly add to the air of opulence and drama. Having staged the great classics including La Traviata and Carmen, Joburg Theatre is a must-visit for opera lovers.
Keep an eye on their Facebook page and website for upcoming shows.
Details: 0861 670 670 | 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein, Johannesburg | [email protected]
The Teatro at Montecasino
The Teatro at Montecasino has hosted the MTN Opera Jewels concert for four consecutive years. The 2019 edition saw tenor Levy Sekgapane unleash his vocal power alongside the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. The Teatro's magnificent architecture hearkens back to the heydays of the opera scene. The grand staircases which lead into the auditorium also give one a sense of theatre greatness. Deck yourself out in fancy dress the next time you visit!
The 2020 MTN Opera Jewels concert should take place between March and April. Watch out for updates on the Montecasino website.
Details: +27 11 510 7398 | 1 Montecasino Boulevard, Montecasino, Fourways, Johannesburg
Nebula Cinemas
Nebula Cinemas is the official home of the Royal Opera House in Johannesburg. They recently made a move from Delta Park to the CineCentre at Killarney Mall, to bring opera fans the very best international theatre with stunning clarity and sound. Their second venue in Benoni is much more niche, catering to smaller audiences. However, this micro theatre still delivers the grandeur and emotion of the Royal Opera, despite its size.
The 2020 Royal Opera House season promises to have you right on the edge of your seat, performing La Traviata, La Boheme, Don Giovanni, Don Pasquale and Elektra. Don't miss out on these world class performances!
Follow Nebula Cinemas on Facebook or visit their website for show lineups.
Details: 011 425 2371 | [email protected]
Linder Auditorium
The Linder Auditorium is the official home of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Performing year round, the JPO often partners with the best local and operatic voices to bring audiences a magical symphony of sound. The orchestra is currently showcasing their Spring Season 2019, which is on until Friday, 15 November 2019. However, if you can't make it to these shows, you can look forward to the annual Christmas with Richard Cock experience, featuring the Symphony Choir of Johannesburg and Johannesburg Festival Orchestra. Joined on stage by tenor Siyabongo Maqungo, this Christmas concert isn't your typical carols by candlelight.
Click here for more information about this event.
Details: 011 717 3223/3007 | Education Campus, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg | [email protected]
UJ Arts Centre
If young operatic talent is what you are looking for, then search no further than the UJ Arts Centre. Championed by the Dean of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, baritone Federico Freschi, the young tenors and sopranos take over the stage. Hosting the faculty's A Grand Night For Singing concert, the UJ Arts Centre offers students a platform to showcase their talents. Combining opera, song and dance, these concerts feature acclaimed guest musicians as well as the renowned UJ Choir.
Check out the UJ Arts Centre website for upcoming student shows.
Details: 011 559 4674 | UJ Kingsway Campus, Corner of Kingsway Ave and University Rd, Auckland Park, Johannesburg | [email protected]
SA State Theatre
Sometimes, you have to travel to experience the best opera the country has to offer. The SA State Theatre in Pretoria is the home of South African opera. Their mission is to promote South African opera - composed, written and performed by South Africans. Bringing the medium to new audiences, and ultimately keeping the art form alive with a new generation of adoring fans.
You can travel to the SA State Theatre via the Gautrain, so there is no need to stress about traffic. Follow them on Facebook for news and updates.
Details: 012 392 4139 | 320 Pretorius Street, Pretoria, Gauteng | [email protected]
Brooklyn Theatre
Another Pretoria opera venue worth visiting is the Brooklyn Theatre. Home of the Gauteng Philharmonic Orchestra, Brooklyn Theatre stages two full opera productions a year. Local and international singers are joined by the GPO in a bid to keep opera alive and thriving. Kicking off their 2020 season, Brooklyn Theatre presents Mozart's The Magic Flute. Hailed as one of the greatest operas ever written, The Magic Flute transcends time and social boundaries to touch the hearts of all who see it. There will only be four performances of this production, so make sure to book your tickets as early as possible.
Details: (012) 460 6033 | Greenlyn Village Centre, Shop 21/Theatre, C/o Thomas Edison and 13th Streets, Menlo Park, Pretoria | [email protected]
Do you know of any other opera venues in the city? Let us know about them!
What Is It?
If you weren't one of the fortunate few to see Andre Rieu live in SA in 2018, then check this out. Maestro Rieu travels to his hometown, Maastricht each year for an epic concert on the medieval square. Fans travel from around the world to see Rieu and his orchestra perform live, alongside talented dancers, singers and guest artists.
In July 2019, Andre Rieu traveled back home to bring his fans the 'Shall We Dance' concert experience. Based on his love of the Waltz, this musical extravaganza features show tunes, classical music favourites, plus exclusive extras for cinema audiences including backstage access, interviews with Andre and special content with the Maestro and his orchestra.
Hosted by Nebula Cinemas and CineCentre Prestige, 'Shall We Dance' is coming to Joburg screens this October. Don't miss it!
When Is It?
Saturday, 05 October 2019 at 17:00 and Sunday, 06 October 2019 at 13:00.
Where Is It?
CineCentre Killarney, Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R120 per person. Get yours here.
For more information
Visit their website for more information.
Details: 0861 00246 300 | [email protected]
The Royal Opera House And Cinematic Shakespeare
Nebula Productions exclusively distribute live screenings by the Royal Opera House and the Royal Shakespeare Company, based in London. Their two cinema venues in Johannesburg are the only to exhibit these screenings within Southern Africa. In late 2019, Nebula Productions announced their new home at CineCentre Killarney Mall. This world-class movie house features the best in comfort seating, as well as delicious snacks and drinks. Hosting screenings every Sunday at 13:00, the CineCentre at Killarney Mall is the home of the Royal Opera and Ballet Cinema in North Johannesburg.
The Nebula Micro Theatre
For those of you who hail from Johannesburg East, there is a hidden treasure waiting in Benoni, the Nebula Micro Theatre. Although much smaller than the CineCentre complex, the Nebula Micro Theatre makes up for its diminutive stature with an unrivaled sensory experience. Seating only 25 at a time, this really is a mini movie house. Nevertheless, this cinema is still able to carry the gravitas of London's best live productions, bringing all the drama, dance and debauchery right to the heart of Ekurhuleni!
What's On
The Nebula Micro Theatre not only brings you the very best of Royal Opera House and the Royal Shakespeare Company, they also screen concerts by world-famous artists and orchestras, West End Musicals and more. Here's our top picks for the Nebula 2020 summer season:
Sleeping Beauty
Nebula Micro Theatre presents the Royal Ballet's rendition of the classic Sleeping Beauty this February. Sure to cast its spell over anyone who sees it, this production combines Royal Ballet tradition with new sections created by Frederick Ashton, Anthony Dowell and Christopher Wheeldon. Throughout the production, Tchaikovsky’s masterful score takes the drama of the dance to a height of passion, sophistication and intensity that arguably has never been surpassed.
If you aren’t familiar with the story of Sleeping Beauty, here’s how it goes:
The wicked fairy, Carabosse, is infuriated when she doesn’t receive an invitation to Princess Aurora’s christening. In her vengeance, she gives the baby a spindle, cursing Aurora to one day prick her finger on it and die. Bur, the Lilac Fairy, bestows her own christening gift, softening Carabosse’s curse: Aurora will not die, but will fall into a deep sleep, which only a prince’s kiss will break.
On her 16th birthday, Aurora discovers the spindle and pricks her finger. She falls into an enchanted sleep, and the whole palace sleeps with her. One hundred years later, Prince Florimund discovers the palace, hidden deep within a great, dark forest. He awakens Aurora with a kiss.
When Is It?
Friday, 14 February 2020 and Sunday, 16 February 2020.
La Boheme
La Boheme is the ultimate French opera. Screening at the Nebula Micro Theatre in March 2020, this is a must-see co-production between the Teatro Real, Madrid and Lyric Opera of Chicago. Set in 19th century Paris, La Boheme is a tale of comedy, romance and tragedy. Characterised by its lyrical arias and deeply emotional storytelling, this epic opera brings many to tears. Coupled with striking set design by Stewart Laing, The Royal Opera Houses' adaptation of Puccini's opera is stellar. The cast features some of the greatest interpreters of Puccini’s bohemian lovers performing today, as well as former members of The Royal Opera’s Jette Parker Young Artists Programme. Don't miss it!
When Is It?
Sunday, 15 March 2020.
Fidelio
Beethoven's only opera, Fidelio is a singular masterpiece, vividly capturing the realities of the French 'Terror' through music and cascading song. In this new production, conducted by Antonio Pappano, Jonas Kaufmann plays the political prisoner, Florestan. Lise Davidsen plays his wife, Leonore (disguised as 'Fidelio'), who daringly sets out to rescue him. With strong themes of domestic intrigue, determined love and the cruelty of an oppressive regime, Fidelio has all the necessary ingredients to sweep you right off your feet.
When Is It?
Sunday, 03 May 2020.
For More Information
Visit the Nebula Productions website for more information - cinemas.nmpc.co.za.
Or, you can follow them on social media for the latest event updates and special features:
Facebook - facebook.com/nebulamicrotheatre
Twitter - twitter.com/CinemasNebula
Details: 24 Kirschner and Dickinson Rd, Benoni North AH, Benoni, Gauteng | 011 425 2371 | [email protected]
Nebula Cinemas
Nebula Production Company are the exclusive cinematic distributors for The Royal Opera House and The Royal Shakespeare Co. for Southern Africa, bringing audiences the best recorded performances straight from London at their venues around Johannesburg. In August 2019, Nebula Cinemas announced that they would be shutting down their venue at Delta Park to move onto bigger and better things. Fans were told to keep their ears to the ground as the cinema negotiated to find their new home.
CineCentre Killarney
Nebula Cinemas later announced their new partnership - CineCentre at Killarney Mall! This world-class cinema offers Royal Opera fans more comfort and a greater variety of awesome shows. As one of the only exhibitors of ROH and Royal Shakespeare Company productions, this CineCentre is about to get a whole lot more popular.
CineCentre is an exclusive cinema complex managed by the Avalon Group. What sets their cinema experience apart from all others is comfort, convenience and curated entertainment. Firstly, CineCentre's seating is amazing! Closer to couch than cramped movie house chair, these seats will help you relax and enjoy your Royal Opera House experience (these screenings are often over three hours long, so comfort is a must).
Situated at Killarney Mall, CineCentre is accessible from all corners of Joburg. So, whether you live in the city centre, in the trendy north or way out in the west, you are never further than an hour away from your favourite cinema experience. Those of you who dwell in the East of Johannesburg can take a short trip to the Nebula Micro Cinema in Benoni. While a lot smaller than CineCentre, this independent cinema house offers just as much good culture and great cinema.
Royal Opera House and Royal Shakespeare Company screenings are held at CineCentre Killarney Mall every Sunday at 13:00. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.
What's On
Nebula Cinemas have a great lineup in store for you. Their 2020 summer season promises to be glorious - featuring all your favourite ballets, operas and dramas, as well as a few new theatre gems. Our top three picks for the season are:
The Royal Ballet's Coppèlia
Coppèlia is a comic ballet, first performed in 1870. With original score by Léo Delibes, the Royal Ballet will whisk you away on an adventure with this whimsical performance. Mayara Magri dances Swanilda, while Cesar Corrales performs the role of Franz. Thomas Whitehead dances the conniving Dr Coppélius.
Coppèlia tells the story of a young man, Franz, who inadvertently falls in love with a life-size mechanical doll invented by Dr Coppélius. Devastated by his betrayal, Franz' betrothed, Swanilda, schemes to learn more about this Coppèlia. Franz plans to meet his beloved by climbing her balcony to where she sits and reads, motionless day after day. But, when Dr Coppélius discovers their plans, things start to unravel. The Doctor plans to steal Franz' spirit to transfer it to the lifeless Coppèlia! He prepares a deadly spell, but Franz narrowly escapes with the help of Swanilda.
Franz and Swanilda reunite, much to the celebration of the townspeople. Meanwhile, the mayor pays off Dr Coppélius and they all live happily ever after.
When Is It?
Sunday, 19 January 2020.
The Royal Shakespeare Company in Twelfth Night
The Royal Shakespeare Company's rendition of the Bard's comedy of errors, Twelfth Night, is headed to Nebula Cinemas at CineCentre Killarney this February. A tale of unrequited love, this is the perfect screening for Valentine's Month. The confusion begins when twins, Viola and Sebastian, are separated in a shipwreck. Landing on a foreign island, Viola disguises herself as her brother to survive. But, when she falls deeply in love with the Count Orsino, the plot begins to unravel. Orsino dotes on the maiden Olivia, who in turn falls for Viola in disguise. The drama reaches its pinnacle when Sebastian makes a dramatic return.
Twelfth Night has inspired many pop-culture spin-offs thanks to its universal message of young misguided love. Bring your single friends along for a laugh a minute experience.
When Is It?
Sunday, 02 February 2020.
Click here to book your tickets.
The Curse Of Sleeping Beauty
The Royal Ballet presents their rendition of the classic Sleeping Beauty with a slightly dark twist. Sure to cast it's spell over anyone who sees it, this production combines Royal Ballet tradition with new sections created by Frederick Ashton, Anthony Dowell and Christopher Wheeldon. Throughout the production, Tchaikovsky’s masterful score takes the drama of the dance to a height of passion, sophistication and intensity that arguably has never been surpassed.
If you aren't familiar with the story of Sleeping Beauty, here's how it goes:
The wicked fairy, Carabosse, is infuriated when she doesn't receive an invitation to Princess Aurora’s christening. In her vengeance, she gives the baby a spindle, cursing Aurora to one day prick her finger on it and die. Bur, the Lilac Fairy bestows her own christening gift, softening Carabosse's curse: Aurora will not die, but will fall into a deep sleep, which only a prince's kiss will break.
On her 16th birthday, Aurora discovers the spindle and pricks her finger. She falls into an enchanted sleep, and the whole palace sleeps with her. One hundred years later, Prince Florimund discovers the palace, hidden deep within a great, dark forest. He awakens Aurora with a kiss.
When Is It?
Sunday, 09 February 2020 and Sunday, 16 February 2020.
For More Information
Visit their website for more information, or follow them on social media:
Facebook - facebook.com/NebulaCinemas
Twitter - twitter.com/CinemasNebula
Details: Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney, Johannesburg | 011 425 2371 | [email protected].
What Is It?
Secret Sunrise Joburg Flower Disco is a silent disco dance session. These events usually take place as the sun rises but this one will happen while the sun sets. You will be given headsets on arrival and you will be guided by "instructors" to dance and party! They combine elements of meditation and ecstatic dance. No experience needed. The dance session will last an hour so don't forget your water. Join them for a movie at the boutique CineCentre after and you have a perfect Friday. The theme is Flower Disco so wear your best floral prints in preparation for spring.
This event is fun for all ages so the kids can also join in.
When Is It?
Friday 31 August 2018 at 17:30
Where Is It?
Killarney Mall (rooftop), 60 Riviera Road, Killarney Johannesburg
How Much Is It?
Tickets are R125 per person for adults, R85 per person for children under 18.
Movie tickets:
The Equalizer (2D) 31 Aug 2018 R45 per person
Looking for Love (2D) 31 Aug 2018 R45 per person
Hotel Transylvania (3D) 31 Aug 2018 R55 per person
Tickets are sold here.
Each ticket has a R5 service fee.
For More Information?
For more information visit the Facebook page or email jo[email protected]