Giselle is one of the most beloved ballets of all time, and with good reason. This romantic, tragic story has been delighting audiences for nearly two centuries.
Based on a German legend, the story follows a young peasant girl who falls in love with a nobleman disguised as a commoner. When his identity is revealed, Giselle dies from a broken heart and joins the Wilis, vengeful spirits of broken-hearted women who dance men to death.
The ballet was first performed in Paris in 1841 and was an immediate success. It was choreographed by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot, two renowned French ballet masters, and featured music by Adolphe Adam. The choreography has remained largely unchanged over the years, although some portions have been revised or replaced.
The story of Giselle is told in two acts. In the first act, Giselle is a peasant girl living in a small village in Germany.
She falls in love with Albrecht, a nobleman disguised as a commoner. When his deception is revealed, Giselle dies from shock and heartbreak.
In the second act, Albrecht visits Giselle’s grave and finds himself surrounded by the Wilis – vengeful spirits of broken-hearted women who have vowed to dance any man who enters their domain to death. Albrecht is saved from this fate by Giselle’s love and forgiveness; she breaks away from her newfound sisters and saves him before disappearing into eternity with them.
Giselle remains one of the most popular ballets today – both for its beautiful music and its timeless story of love conquering all obstacles. It is an exquisite example of classical ballet at its finest – a must-see for any fan of dance or romantic storytelling!
Conclusion: What’s the story of Giselle? It’s a timeless tale of love conquering all obstacles – even death itself! A romantic tragedy set to beautiful music and exquisite choreography, it follows a young peasant girl whose love for an aristocrat leads to heartbreaking consequences but ultimately triumphs over tragedy through her undying devotion.