ARTICLE We are looking forward to continuing our tradition of presenting unforgettable experiences for our regional audiences.” Having gripped audiences the world-over since it first premiered in 1841 in Paris, Giselle’s tragic story of love, madness and betrayal is played out in secret trysts and ghostly visions across two spectacular acts. Giselle follows the story of a village girl who falls in love with a man who is not all he seems. When she discovers his deception, she dies of a broken heart. Transformed into a spirit, she is reunited with her lover in a forest haunted by the ghosts of jilted women, and must dance with him until dawn to save his life. We spoke to artistic director David McCallister about this production. “As a young dancer, a graduate of The Australian Ballet School, I gave my very first professional performance in Giselle. This year, many of the young dancers you will see on stage are having the same experience. “Since 1841, when Carlotta Grisi first danced the title role of Giselle and Lucien Petipa (brother of the famous Marius) danced Albrecht, the greatest dancers in history have reinterpreted this very human tale of love, betrayal, loss and redemption. In this season, that circle of inspiration continues as a whole new generation of dancers from both The Australian Ballet and The Australian Ballet School bring this ballet to life on stages across the country. “Our 2017 tour is led by former Principal Artist Steven Heathcote, one of Australia’s most acclaimed Albrechts, and it has been marvellous for the company to benefit from his knowledge. Former Principal Artist Joanne Michel (herself a wonderful Giselle) and ballet masters Paul Knobloch (The Australian Ballet) and Andrew Murphy (The Australian Ballet School), have been taking such care in the revival of this production and will be looking after the company on the road. “It is such a pleasure to bring you this performance of Giselle. If you’re joining us for the first time, I hope you have many more happy times at the ballet.” “GISELLEISREALLYTHE PERFECTBALLET” Sunday Herald Sun The Australian Ballet Regional Tour GISELLE Experience one of the world’s most loved ballets starring guest artists from The Australian Ballet, and graduating students from The Australian Ballet School, don’t miss this special staged production when it sweeps audiences away in 2017. Since its premiere in 1841, Giselle has captured the imagination and torn at the heart.This transcendent love story follows an innocent village girl transformed into a tender spirit after dying of a broken heart.With its hauntingly beautiful ensemble of white tutus, classical technique and heartbreaking story of boy-meets-girl, Giselle is the perfect must-see ballet. Don’t miss this chance to see The Australian Ballet in Parramatta! Saturday 7th October at 1.30pm & 7.30pm Adults $67, Pensioner $54, Senior $58, 30&U $42 Riverside Members Adult $58, Concession $52, 30&U $34 See website for all prices Transaction fees apply – see page 32 for details LEARN MORE THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET REGIONAL TOUR: GISELLE 7