Ballet Manila’s “Giselle” was a powerful retelling of the classic ballet, bringing the tragic love story to life with fresh energy and emotional depth. Having the privilege of witnessing this performance on its opening night, August 31st, 2024, I was captivated by the timeless themes of love, betrayal, and redemption that unfolded on stage.
In the first act, the vibrant village square served as the backdrop for Giselle’s innocent infatuation with the mysterious Loys, who is later revealed to be the nobleman Albrecht. Renata Shakirova’s delicate portrayal of Giselle captured the essence of the young girl, her joyful spirit radiating through her graceful movements. One couldn’t help but be drawn into her world as she danced with abandon, her every gesture expressing a youthful exuberance that was both infectious and endearing. Alexei Timofeyev’s Albrecht was a study in contrasts, his noble facade masking a conflicted heart. His remorse in Act I was palpable, his every movement conveying Albrecht’s guilt and despair as the consequences of his deception unfolded. Their pas de deux was a highlight, showcasing their technical mastery and undeniable chemistry. The palpable connection between the real-life couple added another layer of authenticity to their performance, drawing the audience into their tragic romance. The act culminated in a heart-wrenching scene as Giselle, upon discovering Albrecht’s betrayal, descends into madness. Shakirova’s portrayal of Giselle’s descent was nothing short of devastating, her movements capturing the raw anguish of a broken heart.
The second act transported the audience to a moonlit forest, the haunting domain of the Wilis, ghostly maidens who dance any man they encounter to death. Shakirova’s ethereal presence as the newly transformed Wili was both captivating and poignant. Her attempts to protect Albrecht from the vengeful Myrtha, Queen of the Wilis, showcased her enduring love even in the afterlife. Even as a Wili, Shakirova’s Giselle retained a flicker of her former innocence, her love for Albrecht shining through the ghostly choreography. The corps de ballet, particularly in the second act, transformed the stage into a haunting dreamscape with their precise and ethereal movements. The synchronized movements of the Wilis, their white tutus flowing like mist, created an atmosphere of otherworldly beauty and dread. Stephanie Santiago, as the newly appointed soloist, commanded attention as the stern and powerful Myrtha. Her commanding presence drew gasps from the audience, her every movement exuding power and authority.
The production’s minimalist set design, enhanced by the Aliw Theater’s modern LED projections, created a visually striking backdrop that focused the attention on the dancers and the emotional core of the story. From the costumes to the choreography, every element of the production was meticulously crafted, contributing to a truly immersive experience.
As Artistic Director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde eloquently expressed in her notes, “‘Giselle’ is a timeless classic.” The ballet’s ability to transport the audience to a world of love, loss, and redemption is a testament to its enduring power. The addition of Mariinsky Ballet’s Renata Shakirova and Alexei Timofeyev to the cast, both students of Elizalde’s own mentor, brought a special resonance to this production. Their presence, along with the strength of the entire Ballet Manila ensemble, ensured that this “Giselle” would be remembered for years to come.
The story of Giselle, a tale of love, betrayal, and forgiveness, reminded me of the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of compassion. It was an unforgettable evening that showcased the beauty and power of ballet, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to attend. A heartfelt thank you to Lisa Macuja-Elizalde and Ballet Manila for the invitation to witness this extraordinary performance.
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