Giselle, one of the greatest ballets of the Romantic era, conceived by Theophile Gautier as a showcase for the great Carlotta Grisi in Paris in 1841, has undergone many changes since then.
Mary Skeaping’s much-loved traditional production, meticulously researched, makes major restorations and puts back the mime, to evoke the original performance.
Giselle, beautifully designed by David Walker and beautifully performed with such charm, tenderness and love, is one of the jewels in English National Ballet’s crown and irresistible. Katja Khaniukovab is Giselle. Aitor Arrieta is Albrecht.
The story, combining the pastoral and the supernatural, is vividly told. Giselle, a very naïve peasant girl, falls in love with a handsome chap, Albrecht, who turns out to be a Duke in disguise and already engaged to a lady at Court. She dies of a broken heart.
Albrecht filled with remorse goes deep into the forest in the middle of the night to find her grave. Here he meets a ghostly bevy of vengeful Wilis, man-hating, virginal, jilted brides, who lure young men to their death.
The ethereal second act, so atmospheric, is gracefully created by the corps in spectral unionism. The iconic arabesque chug section, exquisitely danced to Adolphe Adam’s haunting melodious score, is unforgettable. Charles Bristowe’s brilliant lighting has been recreated by David Mohr.
Giselle is the very essence of romanticism. ENB’s immensely enjoyable Giselle is not to be missed.
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