CITY BALLET OF SAN DIEGO continues its 25th season at its home theater, Spreckels Theatre, with one of ballet’s greatest love stories: “Giselle,” performed with full orchestra.
Performances are Friday, March 9 at 8:00 pm, Saturday, March 10 at 8:00 pm, and Sunday, March 11 at 2:00 pm, at Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, downtown San Diego.
First presented by the Ballet du Théâtre de l’Académie Royale de Musique (Paris Opera Ballet) in Paris, France, on June 28, 1841, “Giselle” is the story of a peasant girl named Giselle who protects her lover from the vengeance of a group of evil female spirits, called the Wilis, the libretto is by Jules-Henri Vernoy de Saint-Georges and Théophile Gautier, with music by Adolphe Adam, and original choreography by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot. In City Ballet’s production, the choreography is by Elizabeth Wistrich after Marius Petipa’s 1884 revival for the Imperial Ballet (today known as the Kirov/Maryinsky Ballet).
The title role of Giselle is one of the most sought-after in ballet, demanding both technical perfection and outstanding grace and lyricism, as well as great dramatic skill. In the first act, Giselle has to convey the innocence and love of a country girl, and the heartbreak of being betrayed. In the second act she must seem otherworldly, yet loving. Some of the most accomplished dancers to perform this role include Anna Pavlova, Margot Fonteyn, and Gelsey Kirkland. In City Ballet’s production, the role of Giselle will be shared by Ariana Gonzalez and Sumire Ito.
Live musical accompaniment will be provided by the City Ballet Orchestra under the leadership of John Nettles, and costumes and scenery are courtesy of Sacramento Ballet.
Approximate Run Time: 2 hours, with one 15-minute intermission
(All programs are subject to change without notice.)
Programming, musical selections, and artists are subject to change without notice.
PERFORMANCES
Friday, March 9 at 8:00pm
Saturday, March 10 at 8:00pm
Sunday, March 11 at 2:00pm
VENUE
Spreckels Theatre
121 Broadway, Downtown San Diego
TICKETS
Tickets are $30-$85. Students, Seniors and Military can purchase discounted tickets of $5 off regular price.
Purchase online at: www.cityballet.org or through Ticketmaster
PRE-CONCERT LECTURES
Prior to each performance is a free pre-concert lecture for ticket holders with Artistic Director Steven Wistrich.
Tickets and information: (858) 272-8663
www.cityballet.org