PAST SEASONS
Giselle 2014
At the Irvine Barclay Theatre
Love, betrayal and forgiveness reign as Festival Ballet embraces a timeless romantic ballet.
Giselle was originally presented in 1842 in Paris, scored by Adolphe Adam, and choreographed by Jules Perrot and Jean Coralli. Original cast included ballet legends Carlotta Grisi as Giselle and Lucien Petipa as Albrecht.
The role of Giselle is one of the most sought-after in ballet, and corps scenes portraying the Willis are both exquisite and haunting. Appearing in the lead roles with Festival Ballet are Gillian Murphy and Cory Stearns, principals with American Ballet Theatre, along with FBT’s highly accomplished company dancers.
FBT originally presented Giselle in 1993 to rave reviews, and we’re happy to present Giselle again this season.
From the time of its premiere in Paris, this ballet has inspired generations of dancers with its tale of the young peasant girl who dies of a broken heart. Giselle, engaged to Loys, is celebrating a plentiful grape harvest with her village when her jealous admirer, Hilarion, reveals that Loys is actually Duke Albrecht and that he is already betrothed to Batilde, a princess. Maddened with sorrow, Giselle dances a crazed dance that eventually turns fatal.
Summoned from her grave to join the Willis, Giselle protects Albrecht from the wrath of her fellow spirits, defending him until morning when the Willis return to their graves and Albrecht can safely escape. Giselle’s loyalty shows that love can transcend death.
Don’t miss Giselle’s spectacular mystery, majesty and magic!
Saturday, March 22, 2014 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, March 23, 2014 @ 2:00 PM