One of ballet’s most beloved romantic masterpieces, Giselle is on its way to The Baxter. Cape Ballet Africa’s production of Maina Gielgud’s Giselle will be at The Baxter from 13 to 22 November at The Pam Golding Theatre. Giselle is known as one of ballet’s most beloved romantic masterpieces. It shares a story of love and betrayal.
“We are delighted to be welcoming Solomon Osazuva to South Africa to perform with Cape Ballet Africa’s Leanè Theunissen in Giselle,” says Debbie Turner, founder and artistic director of Cape Ballet Africa.
One of ballet’s most beloved romantic masterpieces, Giselle
The countdown to the premiere of Maina Gielgud’s Giselle at The Baxter has begun. The production is set to a score by Adolphe Adam. All the performances are set to a recording by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. The production is choreographed by internationally lauded choreographer Maina Gielgud. Prepare yourself for a new set. The costumes are being designed by acclaimed designer Michael Mitchell.
Giselle is on her way to The Baxter
The founder and artistic director of Cape Ballet Africa, Debbie Turner, says they are delighted to welcome international guest artist Solomon Osazuva to the country to perform with Cape Ballet Africa’s Leanè Theunissen in the ballet. Osazuva will take on the role of Albrecht for the season.
Cape Ballet Africa presents Maina Gielgud’s Giselle.
Photo: Fiona MacPherson
“Experience the other captivating partnerships with our very own Mia Coomber dancing Giselle with partner Gabriel Ravenscroft as Albrecht.”
An innocent and beautiful peasant girl
According to Turner, Giselle is an innocent and beautiful peasant girl who loves to dance. She unsuspectingly falls in love with a philandering nobleman, Albrecht. He has disguised himself as a peasant while pursuing her affections. She elaborates that when Giselle discovers his deceit and finds out he is already betrothed, she is inconsolable and dies of a broken heart.
“Experience the captivating partnership of the wonderful Paige McElligott and Joshua Williams performing these roles on other dates.”
Photo credit: Fiona MacPherson
The story continues in the moonlit land of the Wilies, a mysterious landscape inhabited by the vengeful spirits of virgin brides who never reached their wedding day. The ghostly Wilies torment Albrecht as he appears in search of the spirit of Giselle. The duality of the body and spirit, evocation of the supernatural, and the tale of undying love and devotion endear this quintessentially romantic ballet to a universal audience.
The magical, ethereal world of Giselle
Turner says it has been a privilege for all involved to be working with the legendary Maina Gielgud. Her artistry, knowledge and experience are an inspiration and guiding light for each of us. Maina Gielgud is an internationally acclaimed choreographer, director, dancer and teacher. Meanwhile, Solomon Osazuva was born in Vienna. He completed his full ballet education at the Ballet Academy of the Vienna State Opera.
“To have the seasoned, visionary designer Michael Mitchell on board, designing costumes and new sets for us, is the cherry on top.”
