Giselle
Giselle is the glittering crown jewel of French Romantic ballet. It’s a quintessential work in which the elegance of classical dance meets the mystical movement language of the spirits, all set against a cloud of delicate tulle. The story explores themes of love, betrayal, death and forgiveness, with an emotional depth that has resonated across generations. Since its premiere in 1841, the ballet’s timeless beauty has continued to enchant audiences around the world.
Artistic Director of the Ballet, choreographer Javier Torres brings the story of the ballet from the Middle Ages to 1950s Italy. The result is a production that honours the traditions of the genre, enriching Act I with alluring new visuals and a stronger narrative, before returning to the familiar, cherished aesthetics of Act II.
The recording is from the Finnish National Ballet’s performance on October 18, 2025.
Creative Team
CHOREOGRAPHY (partly after Coralli-Perrot-Petipa) Javier Torres
MUSIC Adolphe Adam, Friedrich Burgmüller, Ludwig Minkus
SET DESIGN Annukka Pykäläinen
COSTUME DESIGN Erika Turunen
LIGHTING DESIGN Heikki Paasonen
MUSICAL ARRANGEMENT Gavin Sutherland
CONDUCTOR Gavin Sutherland
Discover the cast of the performance here (pdf)
