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Overview

Giselle, the quintessential Romantic Era ballet, embodies fantasy, etherealism, and supernaturalism. This two-act ballet tells the tragic story of Giselle, a peasant girl, who falls for the charms of the deceitful Count Albrecht. When the truth is unveiled, Giselle dies of heartbreak. Deep in the forest, she rises from her grave and dances with the beautiful and irresistible Wilis. As the spirits of maidens who were wronged by their lovers, they take revenge in the night by compelling men to dance until they perish. In the end, Giselle not only saves Albrecht from the Wilis, she saves herself from becoming one of them.

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Julie Kent on Giselle:

“As Victor and I celebrate our 6^th season with The Washington Ballet, we are excited to revisit and refine our production of “Giselle” as our company and repertoire have evolved, grown and expanded over the last few years. Giselle, a classic, Romantic Era ballet, is an exquisite example of the power and timeless appeal of narrative dance. Since its premiere in 1841, Giselle’s poignant story of love, betrayal and forgiveness has captured the hearts of audiences across the globe.”