Giselle
The greatest of all Romantic ballets, Peter Wright’s production of Marius Petipa’s classic is a tale of betrayal, supernatural spirits and love that transcends death.
When to see it
Booking for 18 January 2014 - 10 February 2014 opens
- Booking opens 22 October 2013 at 10.00am for General Public.
- Booking opens 24 September 2013 at 10.00am for Friends of Covent Garden.
- Booking opens 12 September 2013 at 10.00am for Supporting Friends.
- Booking opens 11 September 2013 at 10.00am for Premium 1 Friends.
- Booking opens 10 September 2013 at 10.00am for Premium 2 Friends.
Introduction
Giselle, a peasant girl, has fallen in love with Count Albrecht, who has led her to believe that he is a villager named Loys. Her discovery of his true identity has devastating consequences.
Background
Giselle is the quintessential Romantic ballet. It transformed the dance world when it was first performed in Paris in 1841 and remains at the centre of the classical repertory. Although the choreography and designs have undergone many changes over the years, the essence of Giselle remains the same. The Royal Ballet’s production uses Marius Petipa’s classic version (after the original choreography by Jules Perrot and Jean Coralli), first staged in St Petersburg in 1884.
The role of Giselle provides a dancer with many technical and dramatic challenges, from the character’s early love to her poignant descent into madness and final gesture of forgiveness from beyond the grave. The first act of the ballet is filled with historical detail and rustic colour. By contrast, the second act (known as the White Act) plunges the audience into an eerie moonlit forest haunted by the ethereal Wilis – vengeful spirits of young brides who died before their wedding day. With its combination of memorable story and exquisite choreography, Giselle is the perfect way to discover classical ballet.
Live cinema season
Giselle will be screened live in cinemas on 27 January
Thanks to
Generous philanthropic support from
The Jean Sainsbury Royal Opera House Fund
How to support the Royal Opera House
Running time
About 2 hours 10 minutes | Including one interval
Credits
| Choreography | Marius Petipa |
| Scenario | Théophile Gautier |
| Production | Peter Wright |
| Additional choreography | Peter Wright |
| Music | Adolphe Adam |
| Designs | John Macfarlane |
| Original lighting | Jennifer Tipton |
| Lighting design | David Finn |
| Staging | Christopher Carr |
Shop
Related links
- www.theballetbag.com The Ballet Bag: Giselle
- www.rohcollections.org.uk Costume, photographic and poster collections – Giselle
- en.wikipedia.org Wikipedia: Giselle
