GISELLE
CAST AND MUSICIANS: St Petersburg Ballet Theatre and the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra
Directors: Andrew Guild and Simon Bryce
VENUE: Artscape Opera House
Until: Saturday
RATING: ****
In the light of previous disappointments, one is slightly apprehensive about attending another international touring ballet company’s productions. The St Petersburg Ballet Theatre’s production, however, shatters these preconceived notions with a superb presentation of world-class dance by a consummate troupe of dancers.
The dancers’ technical prowess is truly remarkable with great attention given to minuscule details in the execution of steps.
It is especially the corps de ballet that impresses with notable unison and fine-tuned synergy. They move as a unified force with exceptional precision and astonishing flair.
The most outstanding quality of the cast is their ability to characterise. Each and every dancer presents a character that communicates distinctively and collectively contributes to a very enjoyable, entertaining performance.
Every dancer adds to the telling of the story that makes watching the ballet so much more pleasurable.
Irina Kolesnikova, as Giselle, is a force to be reckoned with. Her individuality as a ballerina has made her quite a phenomenon. Technically, her dancing is flawless and her artistry breathtaking.
It is, however, her personality that sweeps one off your feet.
Kolesnikova effortlessly pours her charm into the moulds of her characters in order to shape personas that are (amidst the rigidity of conventional ballet mime) spellbinding, utterly convincing and so consistent that she transports one into her world where you are filled with compassion for her plight. Her portrayal of Giselle’s mental degeneration is spellbinding.
Dimitri Akulinin, as Count Albrecht, is as regal and majestic as any patrician can be. However, he portrays the character with a compassionate sensitivity that perfectly heightens the tragedy of Kolesnikova’s demise.
Their partner work is sculpted to perfection and their solos are invariably brilliant.
During the course of their tour the St Petersburg Ballet Theatre promises to treat ballet lovers to three top-notch productions – Giselle, Swan Lake and Don Quixote.
Adding to the delight is the live orchestral music by the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra, conducted by Timur Gorkovenko. Judging from the standard of the opening night of Giselle, these are not empty promises. One is thrilled and compelled to recommend the full indulgence of the treat.