Four Nights, “Giselle” at Cairo Opera House

24 June 2024

As part of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture's commitment to revive and present treasures of ballet classics, the Cairo Opera House, under the supervision of Dr. Lamiaa Zayed, is hosting the renowned romantic classical ballet, “Giselle,” performed by the Cairo Opera Ballet Company at the Main Hall on 27 & 28 June 2024 and 1 & 2 July 2024 at 8:30 p.m.
The ballet is directed by the Company’s artistic director Erminia Kamel; choreographed by Jean Coralli, Jules Perrot, and Abdel Moneim Kamel; lighting design by Yasser Shalaan; and set design by Mohamed El Gharabawy.
Inspired by Slavic folklore and the works of the great French writer Victor Hugo, “Giselle” is a two-acts ballet with a libretto by French writers Théophile Gautier and Jules-Henri Vernoy de Saint-Georges, and music by Adolphe Adam.
In a tragic romantic setting, the ballet tells the story of a simple country girl named Giselle, who unknowingly falls in love with a nobleman named Albrecht. To win her affection, Albrecht decides to disguise himself as a simple peasant. However, their blissful romance is shattered when Giselle discovers Albrecht's true identity - that he is engaged to another woman. Heartbroken and betrayed, Giselle succumbs to madness and dies of a broken heart.
In the second act, Giselle transforms into one of the spirits known as "Wilis," who are the spirits of young women betrayed by their lovers, seeking revenge on men. However, due to her genuine love for Albrecht, Giselle strives to protect him from a doomed fate at the hands of the Wilis.
"Giselle" is one of the most famous works in the history of classical ballet. It is a quintessential example of 19th-century romantic ballet and has since become a staple in the repertoire of many world-class ballet companies.
The four performances held at the Cairo Opera House offer a fantastic opportunity for ballet enthusiasts to enjoy this classic work, which combines drama, exquisite music, and the exceptional performance of the Cairo Opera Ballet Company.