Ballet returns to the stage
A romantic, mystical and lyrical ballet is returning to the stage in Palmerston North.
The Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Giselle, which toured the world after its sold-out premiere season in 2012, was returning to delight ballet fans around the country in May and June.
The balletwould entertain an audience in Palmerston North on May 19 at the Regent on Broadway.
Royal New Zealand Ballet artistic director Patricia Barker said the company had reached into its vault of precious gems and beloved ballets, and couldn’t wait bring
Giselle back to the stage.
‘‘New Zealand audiences and dancers have shared an almost 70-year love affair with this ballet, which continues to enthral us all with its elegance and timeless story.’’
She said the other-worldly romantic ballet had become a signature piece for the Royal New Zealand Ballet.
Former artistic director Ethan Stiefel and celebrated principal dancer, choreographer and director Johan Kobborg’s production of
Giselle first toured New Zealand in 2012 to packed audiences, returning in 2016 to equal acclaim.
The production then toured China, the USA, United Kingdom and Italy.
In 2013, it was turned into a feature film by director Toa Fraser.
Stiefelwas proud the iconic and unique production would have the opportunity to engage and entertain audiences across the country again.
This year people could watch the show in Wellington, Palmerston North, Napier, Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin.
The ballet was about the innocent and beautiful Giselle, who was captivated by a mysterious stranger in a remote village.
The man revealed as Count Albrecht, was betrothed to another. The heartbroken Giselle descends into madness and death.
The Wilis, vengeful ghosts of jilted brides, greeted Giselle in the forest, who rose from her grave to join their ranks.
Albrecht arrived to mourn and the Wilis exacted their revenge, compelling him to dance until he died from exhaustion.
Giselle shields him from their fury, until the first light of day brought the promise of forgiveness and redemption.
The ballet was conducted by principal conductor Hamish Mckeich.
Adolphe Adam’s lyrical score would be performed live by Orchestra Wellington, the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, with a recorded version by Orchestra Wellington in other centres.
Giselle would tour from May 12 to June 9, and would be at the Regent on Broadway in Palmerston North on May 19.
Tickets could be bought online.