For the first time in 10 years, the traditional classical ballet Giselle will be performed on the Vancouver stage.
After sold-out performances of Swan Lake in 2016, Coastal City Ballet presents the highlight of the 2016-2017 season: the illustrious and beloved ballet Giselle, a Canadian premiere choreographed by Irene Schneider, on May 19 at 8 p.m. at The Playhouse in Vancouver, and June 9 at 8 p.m. at Surrey Arts Centre.
Since its Paris premiere in 1841, Giselle has become the epitome of ballet romanticism.
Giselle tells of a young peasant girl betrayed by a nobleman disguised as a commoner. Unable to withstand the prince’s deception, Giselle dies of a broken heart only to join the ranks of the supernatural Wilis, restless spirits who have died before their wedding day. As vengeful as they are entrancing, the Wilis lure young men into their lair — driving them to dance until they die.
In a heartfelt display of forgiveness from beyond the grave, Giselle saves her beloved from certain death at the hands of her ghostly sisters.
A haunting story of innocence and betrayal, and a timeless tale about the redemptive power of love, Irene Schneider’s Giselle features some of ballet’s most dramatic scenes and otherworldly images.
The talents of Coastal City Ballet along with the score of Aldolphe Adam, glorious costumes and imaginative sets bring this heart wrenching love story to life.
Li Yaming, artistic director of Coastal City Ballet, is excited to stage this ballet in the company’s sixth season.
“Vancouver audiences have such limited opportunity to see the traditional story ballets,” she said. “After sold-out performances of Swan Lake it was clear to me that Coastal City Ballet provides a much-needed glimpse into the arts. I was determined to mount such a traditional classic again this season. Giselle has long been one of my favorite ballets and I’m overjoyed that Vancouver will experience it as well.”
Tickets for the Vancouver performance range from $29.95 to $59.95 with discounts for groups of 10 or more. Purchase online at https://www.vtixonline.com/ or call 604-241-7292.
Tickets for the Surrey performance range from $35 to $42 with discounts for groups of 10 or more. Purchase online at https://tickets.surrey.ca/TheatreManager/1/online?performance=3982 or call 604-501-5566.