Review by KIMBERLEY BERGSTROM
Los Alamos
Giselle is one of those ballets that has stood the test of time. Filled with emotion and drama, and requiring perfect technique and grace, it remains—at over 180 years old—one of the most popular and beloved ballets of all time.
Act I of Dance Art Los Alamos’ production of “Giselle” sets the stage for the unfolding tragedy. The act primarily focuses on the blossoming romance between Giselle, a young peasant girl, and Albrecht, a nobleman disguised as a commoner. Christo McMaster, a guest artist from Festival Ballet Albuquerque, is a regal and stately Albrecht. Violet Henderson, as Giselle, portrays Giselle’s innocence and vulnerability perfectly; her stage presence and musicality bring the character to life and I particularly enjoyed her interaction with Berthe, her mother (played by Audrey Roman), and her friend (a beautiful performance by Andrea Rivera).
Be aware that Act I is full of ballet pantomime, which has its own vocabulary and symbolism used to complement the choreography and help tell the story. I was impressed with how well all of the dancers told the story through mime, but a quick read of the program may help your understanding if you’re not familiar with the gestures. As Act I unfolds, the budding love between Giselle and Albrecht blossoms, depicted through tender pas de deux and expressive solos. Their joyous and innocent romance is engaging and believable. Samuel Pesiri’s Hilarion is another notable performance; he attacks the role with athleticism and provides the perfect foil for McMaster’s Albrecht.
DALA consistently delivers captivating and emotionally charged storytelling, and their rendition of Giselle is no exception. Act I climaxes in the iconic “mad scene”. After discovering that Albrecht is betrothed to another, Giselle is overwhelmed with grief and betrayed loved. Henderson’s performance is convincing and haunting; she seems to go through despair, confusion, and anger, caught between reality and her own tormented imagination before finally collapsing and dying of a broken heart.
While Act I is full of cheerful pageantry, Act II takes us to a haunting and ethereal world full of melancholy beauty. Early in Act II we meet the Wilis; and if they didn’t originate the term “give me the willies”, I would be surprised. The Wilis are spirits of jilted brides who rise from their graves at night to seek revenge on any man they encounter. Poor Hilarion is a victim of the Wilis and Albrecht is saved only by Giselle’s protection.
Act II features DALA’s advanced dancers dancing the original choreography that is performed the world over. The corps de ballet was beautiful, dancing very challenging choreography in unison. When the corps enters, filling the stage and shrouded in white, it’s both beautiful and eerie. Watch for the hops in arabesque across the stage – a deceptively difficult sequence that appears effortless. Sonia Ebey is a formidable and commanding Myrtha, Queen of the Wilis. If Giselle embodies delicate vulnerability, Myrtha is strength and unrelenting resolve. Ebey’s dancing is confident and her regal demeanor never waivers.
Act II features many difficult variations and pas de deux that display the artistry and skill of the dancers. The pas de deux between Giselle, now a Wili, and Albrecht in Act II is a poignant highlight. The partnership between the two dancers becomes an exquisite blend of technical prowess and emotional storytelling. The lifts, turns, and extensions are executed with seamless fluidity, expressing the lingering love and heartache between the characters. The story concludes as dawn breaks, the Wilis’ powers fading. Giselle, having fulfilled her mission of saving Albrecht, must return to her eternal rest.
DALA’s production of “Giselle” is a triumph, showcasing the passion, skill, and artistry that exists within the thriving arts community we are lucky enough to enjoy in Los Alamos. It served as a testament to the power of the performing arts to transport and inspire. Bravo to the entire cast, crew, and creative team for their exceptional work, reminding us that greatness can be found right in our own backyard. This production of “Giselle” will be remembered as a true local gem that captivated hearts and ignited a newfound appreciation for the beauty of ballet.
“Giselle” will begin at 7 p.m. Friday at Duane Smith Auditorium. Tickets are $20 for general admission, $10 seniors and $5 for students. Tickets can be purchased through DALA’s social media channels including Facebook and Instagram.
