UK Theatre Network

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia – Giselle

Reviewed at Milton Keynes Theatre on 5^th March 2009

I have never seen Giselle before but this production by the Russian State Ballet of Siberia was really worth waiting for.  This is of course a truly romantic ballet in the old fashion fantasy style with beautiful sets and magnificent costumes.

The two lead dancers Anna Aulle and Nikolai Tchevychelov were beautifully matched, she was delicate and he was bold and romantic.  Their pas de deux were particularly magical with the most exquisite, effortless lifts.

Ivan Karnaukhov played the part of the love sick Hans with particular skill right through to his tragic death at the hands of the merciless Wiles.  Of course Giselle is nothing without the Wiles. In this production the almost perfect synchronised dancing was hauntingly beautiful and terrifying at the same time. Anastasia Kazantseva as Myrtha was ethereal and menacing.

The music composed by Adolphe Adam is full of poetic feeling and was powerfully interpreted by the music director and chief conductor Anatoly Tchepurnoi.

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia performed at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 7th March 2009.  Milton Keynes Box Office 0871 297 5454 (bkg fee) www.miltonkeynestheatre.com.  For details of further dates and venues please go to http://www.raymondgubbay.co.uk/newDisplayEvent.asp?eventid=1568

Reviewed by Pippa Elliot at Milton Keynes Theatre on Thursday 5th March 2009 on behalf of Yvonne Penne-Stuart.