Review: ‘Giselle’ Royal Opera House ‘breathtaking’ as Natalia Osipova does the ‘impossible’
The Royal Opera House brought the famous ballet Giselle to life and it was truly breathtaking. Natalia Osipova is the most talented performer I’ve ever witnessed in a performance. Her chemisty with Carlos Acosta (Albrecht) truly brought the characters to life.
Giselle is the story of a peasant girl who has fallen in love with Count Albrecht, who has led her to believe that he is a villager named Loys. Her discovery of his true identity, which has devastating consequences, is surely an amazing journey in the exploration of humanity.
The second act leaves the audience in awe and thinking “That’s impossible” as Osipova brings Giselle to a new standard of superior performance.
The only thing more amazing was the fleet of Wilis, ghostly spectres of scorned women who dance men to their death when they enter their kingdom. Two dozen Wilis moving in perfect harmony and unison, making the Olympic synchronized swimmers look like children on a playground.
Sadly I felt Hikaru Kobayashi’s Myrthe disappointing and unsteady. I understand the role as Queen as the Wilis, but she seemed disconnected and stiff.
The ROH live cinema and Fanthom entertainment delivered a wonderfully close look at the performers, but a few too many changes and zooms detracted from the overall beauty of Giselle.
Overall Giselle by ROH (via Fathom) receives 4 1/2 out 5 stars
There are a ton of upcoming events through Fathom so be sure to check out the calendar HERE
Check out reviews of these other great productions:
photos courtesy of ROH/Fathom
[…] Giselle […]
[…] Giselle […]