Texture Ballet School - 2023 Spring Performance
Featuring the classic ballet Giselle and exciting new choreography by Texture Director Alan Obuzor, Texture Resident Dancer Madeline Kendall, and guest choreograpgher Kelly Gallagher!
Act 1 - Giselle
One of the most popular classical ballets of all time, Giselle was created during the Romantic Era of ballet. This iconic ballet tells the story of Giselle and Albrecht - the two dance together joyously in the village, even though Giselle's mother reminds her that she is not supposed to exert herself because she has a weak heart. Just as Giselle is about to be crowned queen of the harvest festival, Albrecht's is true identity is revealed - he is royalty.
All are shocked by the revelation, but none more than Giselle, who becomes inconsolable when faced with her beloved's deception. Knowing that they can never be together, she begins to dance wildly and erratically, ultimately causing her weak heart to give out.
As midnight approaches, the Wilis, spirits of maidens who have died of broken hearts, materialize. Their love unrequited, they can find no rest. Led by their merciless queen, Myrtha, their spirits are forever destined to haunt the forest from midnight to dawn, vengefully trapping any man who enters their domain and dancing them to their deaths.
Later, Count Albrecht visits Giselle’s grave, laden with feelings of guilt and remorse. Giselle’s spirit appears and Albrecht begs her forgiveness. Her love undiminished, unlike her vengeful sisters, Giselle gently forgives him. Myrtha discovers them together and orders the Wilis to enact their revenge on Albrecht. Giselle resolves to protect Albrecht and implores Myrtha to reconsider his fate. Her pleas are dismissed, and Albrecht is forced to dance until sunrise. However, the power of Giselle’s love counters the Wilis’ magic and spares his life. Daylight destroys the Wilis’ power, and the ghostly dancers fade away. Because her love has transcended death, Giselle returns to her grave to rest in peace, her spirit freed from the power of the Wilis.
Act 2 - Classical, contemporary, and tap works
Grand Pas Classique - choreographed by Victor Gsovsky with music by Auber. Premiered November 12, 1949 at the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées in Paris with Chauviré and Skouratoff. Distinguished by its dazzling display of classical virtuosity, it has remained popular with dancers everywhere.
We will present two excerpts from the Sleeping Beauty, the graceful Nymphs from act 2 and the regal Wedding Grand Pas de Deux from act 3, both brought to life by the dazzling music of Tchaikovsky.
To round out our program there will be two new exciting tap pieces and two new dynamic contemporary works by choreographers, Kelly Gallagher, Madeline Kendall, and Alan Obuzor. These exciting pieces are sure to sweep you off your feet and bring you joy!
