Joburg Ballet Announces A First of Its Kind Fundraiser

Tutus, Hares and Heart – a creative collaboration supporting young dancers at RMB Latitudes Art Fair

Joburg Ballet is thrilled to announce a first of its kind fundraiser. Taking place from 22 – 24 May 2026 at Shepstone Gardens, RMB Latitudes Art Fair will this year host a special fundraising initiative with Guy du Toit in collaboration with Everard Read Gallery. Together, they have donated the first edition (1/16) of du Toit’s irresistible sculpture Cygnets to be won during the Fair, with proceeds benefiting Joburg Ballet’s Pointe Shoe Fund.

The work was inspired by the iconic “Dance of the Cygnets” from Swan Lake, following a performance by Joburg Ballet dancers at RMB Starlight Classics in Johannesburg in September 2025, which artist Guy du Toit attended as a guest of RMB. Moved by the performance, du Toit began imagining his signature hares transformed into dancers en pointe – playful, elegant and full of movement.

The donor competition is limited to 300 people, each possible winners of this magnificent, first of its kind sculpture. To qualify, a minimum R1,000 donation must be made to Joburg Ballet at the competition link or at RMB Latitudes Art Fair. Participants will receive one entry for every R1 000 donated, so the more you donate, the more chance there is of winning. The successful entrant will take home the memorable first edition of Cygnet worth R90 000. The remaining 15 editions will retail at the Everard Read Gallery at RMB Latitudes.

Known for his whimsical and highly collectible hare sculptures, du Toit has built a devoted following for works that blend humour, nostalgia and craftsmanship. His much-loved Pez Hares, inspired by the collectible sweet dispensers of childhood, have proven especially popular, with demand so strong that select works are being held back for special presentation at the Fair.

A curated collection of du Toit’s small hares will be exhibited by Everard Read Gallery in the Chapel at Shepstone Gardens during RMB Latitudes.

Carolynne Waterhouse of RMB Marketing, says:

“We are delighted that RMB Latitudes is hosting this partnership – a project that extends the largesse from one creative discipline to another. Art and dance both rely on talent, discipline, tenacity, creativity and public support. We trust this initiative not only raises meaningful funds for Joburg Ballet but also celebrates the spirit of collaboration that keeps culture thriving.”

Elroy Fillis-Bell, CEO of Joburg Ballet, says:

“We are deeply grateful to Guy du Toit, Everard Read Gallery and RMB Latitudes for this generous initiative. Supporting Joburg Ballet’s Pointe Shoe fund directly supports talented young dancers who do not have the means to purchase the essential tools of their craft. This allows us to continue nurturing young talent through development programmes and ensuring the continued excellence of ballet in South Africa.”

Beyond the Fair itself, RMB Latitudes’ annual public art presence in Sandton returns with a striking new installation at the RMB Fountain on the corner of Merchant Place and Fredman Drive. This year’s vibrant banner installation creates a bold explosion of colour across the precinct, while a special edition Guy du Toit hare sculpture playfully overlooks the intersection from above – bringing wit, creativity and character to Johannesburg’s financial district. The installation reflects the Fair’s longstanding commitment to accessibility – taking art beyond the traditional white cube and into public space for thousands of commuters and passers-by to enjoy.

RMB Latitudes continues to position itself as a Johannesburg platform where art connects communities, ignites debate and creates meaningful impact. More than an art fair, it has become a reflection of the city’s creative energy and optimism – the kind of event that reminds people that Johannesburg is vibrant, dynamic and very much alive with possibility.

Stand a chance to win Cygnets (1/16) courtesy of Guy du Toit and Everard Read Gallery by donating to Joburg Ballet. Find Joburg Ballet staff at the Everard Read Gallery in the Chapel at Shepstone Gardens during RMB Latitudes or follow the link here.