Giselle in the whirlwind of World War II

Text Susanna Poikela
Photo Rünno Lahesoo

A new version of Adolphe Adam’s famous ballet “Giselle” will be shown this spring and summer at the Estonian National Opera in Tallinn. In the story, which is set during World War II, betrayal and forgiveness take on a darker meaning than usual.

Giselle is one of the most beautiful and traditional pieces of romantic ballet. The original story has been preserved, but the staging is intertwined with the language of classical and modern dance.

The director and choreographer of the ballet, Michael Pink, has placed Giselle in the 1940s ghetto. This arrangement makes the ballet more intense and provocative. Due to the subject matter, Giselle is not recommended for viewers under the age of 14.

Despite the heavy theme, the ballet’s director believes in the power of forgiveness. “I want the audience to allow themselves to experience the power and triumph of love while watching the ballet. Pain is not removed by forgetting, but by forgiveness”, believes Michael Pink. Unfortunately, the contradictions of the ballet are still relevant, but the director believes that art, beauty, and forgiveness still give us all hope.

The next performance of this adaptation of Giselle at the Estonian National Opera will take place on May 3. Tickets can be bought at the Estonian National Opera ticket office or Piletilevi. 

To learn more about this and similar topics
Adolphe Adam Ballet Dance Estonian National Opera Events in Tallinn Giselle Michael Pink Opera Ballet