American Ballet Theatre: Giselle
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts 2700 F Street NW, District of Columbia 20566
Christened “America’s National Ballet Company”® by an act of Congress in 2006, ABT has danced every season at the Kennedy Center since we opened our doors in 1971. An exciting new generation of ABT’s international stars now comes to D.C. for one of the world’s most cherished ballets; the company last performed it in our Opera House nearly 15 years ago.
Considered a quintessential tale of unrequited love, heartbreaking loss, and triumphant forgiveness, Giselle remains a timeless favorite. Critics and audiences rave that Artistic Director Kevin McKenzie’s staging is most pure to the versions handed down by the masters Petipa, Coralli, and Perrot. A perfect fusion of music, movement, and drama, Giselle has been called “American Ballet Theatre’s best, most moving classical production” by the New York Post. Charmingly rustic sets and costumes draw audiences into the story of the innocent yet noble village maiden—while classic moments such as the Peasant Pas de Deux, Giselle’s hops on pointe, and the ethereal Wilis in white mesmerize seasoned balletgoers and new audiences alike.