Broadcast, Royal Ballet and Opera
Choreography: Peter Wright
Conductor: Vello Pahn
Cast: Giselle: Akane Takada. Albrecht: Steven McRae. Myrtha, Queen Of The Wilis: Annette Buvoli.
Orchestra: Orchestra of the Royal Opera House
Peasant girl Giselle has fallen in love with Albrecht. When she discovers that he is actually a nobleman promised to another, she kills herself in despair. Her spirit joins the Wilis: the vengeful ghosts of women hell-bent on killing any man who crosses their path in a dance to the death. Wracked with guilt, Albrecht visits Giselle’s grave, where he must face the Wilis – and Giselle’s ghost.
Peter Wright’s 1985 production of this quintessential Romantic ballet is a classic of The Royal Ballet repertory. Set to Adolphe Adam’s evocative score and with atmospheric designs by John Macfarlane, Giselle conjures up the earthly and otherworldly realms in a tale of love, betrayal and redemption.
(2hr 20mins including one interval)