BYU’s Premier Ballet Company, Theatre Ballet, Presents the Quintessential Romantic Ballet, “Giselle” On- and Off-Campus
Performance Details
Date & Time:
- February 19–21 at 7:30 p.m.
- February 22 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Location: RB Dance Performance Theatre
Price: $18
Tickets: Available online at BYU OnStage
BYU Theatre Ballet presents “Giselle,” one of the most well-known Romantic era ballets, filled with themes of betrayal, forgiveness and redemption that has captivated audiences for nearly two centuries. This family-friendly adaptation runs approximately 80 minutes and will not have an intermission or pauses.
In their Director’s Note that will be included in the production program, Theatre Ballet’s two artistic directors, Brooke Storheim and Ashley Parov, and Theatre Ballet assistant director, Mira Larsen, explain that, “since its premiere in Paris in 1841, ‘Giselle’ has been celebrated as a quintessential masterpiece of French Romantic ballet and remains a cornerstone of the classical repertoire.”
“At its core, ‘Giselle’ is a story about the human condition and the transformative power of love and forgiveness—universal themes that resonate with us all,” the three directors said. “Whether this is your first time experiencing ‘Giselle’ or you are revisiting a cherished favorite, we invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of this timeless ballet and enjoy the exceptional artistry of our talented dancers.”
Theatre Ballet directors and dancers worked with dramaturg Belle Frahm Menzie on the role of escapism in the Romantic Movement. During this 19th century movement, artists moved on from classical ideals and instead drew inspiration from the supernatural and imagination as is seen in Act 2 of ‘Giselle’ when dancers enter a haunting supernatural world and prioritize emotion over reason. Another hallmark of the Romantic Movement in ballet was the development of the pointe shoe which has become one of the most important aspects of classical ballet today.
Dance students Isabella Mudrick and Abby Wardle will play the title role of Giselle. The role of Loys/Albrecht is played by Gordon Felesina. “Giselle is one of the most demanding roles in the classical ballet repertoire, requiring an exceptionally high level of technical expertise, acting ability and artistic expression,” said artistic director Brooke Storheim. “Mudrick and Wardle are doing an outstanding job. Felesina displays mature acting and partnering skills, facilitating breathtaking pas de deux work.”
In addition to the on-campus performances in February, Theatre Ballet also performed at Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center on January 30 and will be performing in St. George, Utah on April 4.