Since its 1841 debut in Paris, Giselle has become one of the world’s most popular ballets. Brisbane audiences will experience Gielgud’s stunning version, not seen in Brisbane for twenty years.

This is one of the real showpieces of classical ballet: steeped in history, beautifully staged, and full of demanding, traditional dancing. This Romantic tale of innocent love and betrayal tells the story of Giselle, a simple country girl, who falls in love with Albrecht, a prince who visits her village disguised as a peasant. Albrecht, however, is already engaged. When Giselle discovers his deception her happiness ends in madness and she dies of a broken heart.

The mythical Wilis – the ghosts of spurned lovers – take revenge on Albrecht by attempting to dance him to death. But Giselle, whose devotion has survived death, reaches out from beyond the grave to save him.

“It has heart, soul and emotional truth. Nobody does story ballets as well as The Australian Ballet …” Herald Sun

Gielgud’s 1986 production has been acclaimed around the world. It was the centerpiece of the repertoire for the company’s triumphant 1990 tour of the United States, was widely applauded during a successful season at the London Coliseum in 1992, and most recently was a huge success during the 2006 season, selling out in Melbourne and attracting a capacity crowd at a free outdoor performance in Darwin. -- www.australianballet.com.au