What Is the Story of the Giselle Ballet?

Ballet

The story of the Giselle Ballet is a classic tale of love, betrayal and redemption. Giselle is a peasant girl who falls in love with a nobleman, Albrecht, who is secretly betrothed to another woman.

When Giselle discovers his deceit, she dies of a broken heart. In death, she joins the Wilis, a group of female ghosts whose mission is to punish unfaithful men by making them dance until they die of exhaustion. Albrecht begs for her forgiveness and she ultimately grants it to him and helps him escape the Wilis’ wrath.

Giselle is one of the most popular ballets in the classical repertoire. Its story has been adapted by many choreographers and companies over the years, but all versions maintain its essential elements: beautiful choreography set to an exquisite score. The music was composed by Adolphe Adam in 1841 and has since become one of the most recognizable pieces in ballet history.

The ballet begins with Giselle’s village celebration where she meets Albrecht. The two share an instant connection that quickly blossoms into love.

After learning of his true identity, Giselle suffers a mental breakdown and dies of heartache. This leads into Act II which takes place in a forest at night filled with Wilis who are waiting to exact their revenge on any man who enters their realm.

The action then shifts back to the village where Albrecht comes seeking Giselle’s forgiveness. With her final act of mercy, she saves him from certain death at the hands of the vengeful ghosts. The ballet concludes with Albrecht honoring Giselle’s memory by placing flowers at her grave.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ‘The Story Of The Giselle Ballet’ is an enduring classic tale about love, betrayal and redemption set to beautiful choreography and music composed by Adolphe Adam in 1841. It follows the story of peasant girl Giselle who falls in love with nobleman Albrecht only to have her heart broken when she discovers his deceitful nature leading her on a path towards redemption as well as saving him from certain death at the hands of vengeful ghosts.