Giselle (Tour – Manchester)
A fusion of nationalities once again unite together in a Giselle that can only be described as pure perfection. English National Ballet interpret the classic romance splendidly, having the capability of making a performance so renowned and well rehearsed appear so effortless and unique.
Twisting convention, the ENB provide an all-male opening that precedes the main production. However, unlike a warm-up act for a comedian, this innovative ballet, created by talented choreographer Wayne Eagling, will leave you wondering how it can ever be surpassed. Synchronised aand strong, the piece becomes all the more daring and spectacular as the music reaches its crescendo.
Yet somehow all expectations are exceeded as soon as the curtain rises for the first act. The audience watch as a young and naive peasant girl named Giselle becomes encapsulated in all the sensations that accompany love.
From the spectacle of the set, to the complicity of the orchestra, to the beauty of the costumes, nobody puts a fot wrong. Above anything else, however, it is the dedication and focus of each and every artist that truly lights up the stage. There is not one soul that does not eat, sleep and breathe ballet, every performer undoubtedly being born to dance. Your head moves with their every movement, as arabesques astound and pas- de- deux’s enchant.
A special mention must be given to the principal dancer, Elena Glurdjidze, whose loveable persona and delicacy on pointe, provides an unforgettable experience. Flawless in every way, Glurdjidze does so much more than just dance- her character is alive and so astonishingly real that you feel every emotion with her. She is able to portray extreme happiness and heartache in such an endearing manner that you are almost scared to tear your eyes away from her, even for a second.
Love interests, Albrecht (Arionel Vargas) and Hilarion (Daniel Jones) give similarly believable performances, their infatuation for Giselle coming through in every gesture and facial expression.
The second half does not excite and gratify quite as successfully as the first, as there is it has a gothic and supernatural tone. Despite this though, technique remains faultless, the standard being in a league higher than I have ever seen before.
A beautiful romance, where passion is not just in the narrative, but in the hearts of the performers also. ENB continues to amaze with this timeless classic that proves how love will forever overcome evil.
Giselle offers ballet fans a mesmerising and magical night.
-Rebecca Cohen
