VNOB soloists Phạm Thu Hằng and Nguyễn Đức Hiếu perform as two main roles in Giselle ballet. Photo Mạnh Ngô Xuân

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam National Opera and Ballet (VNOB) will bring Giselle - one of the greatest romantic ballets to audiences in Hà Nội downtown on August 2 & 3.

Giselle is a story of how the power of forgiveness and redemption can overcome the anguish of love and betrayal. It unfolds against the ghostly backdrop of a forest haunted by vengeful spirits of abandoned brides.

First staged in Paris in 1841, Giselle is one of the oldest ballets in the international repertoire which is still enjoyed by audiences around the world.

"We as the national ballet theatre have performed popular ballets like Swan Lake and La Sylphide," said Phan Mạnh Đức, VNOB's director and the ballet's art director.

"Giselle is a romantic ballet loved by all dancers and ballet lovers. We have performed this wonderful masterpiece and it is always a joy to show it to the public."

Giselle, the main character in the ballet of the same name, is portrayed as a pure and gentle young girl living in a tranquil village. Despite her fragile heart and soul, she falls deeply in love with Albrecht, a wealthy noble, only to be betrayed and devastated by his actions.

In death, Giselle becomes a Willis, a spirit seeking vengeance on those who betray their lovers. Yet, she overcomes her assigned punishment and dedicates herself to protecting Albrecht from a tragic fate.

The character of Giselle has captured the hearts of many, with her beauty and emotional depth creating a truly captivating ballet performance, according to ballerina Phạm Thu Hằng.

"Giselle is a big challenge for me," said Hằng. "The role requires both excellent dance skills and a deep understanding of Giselle's complicated soul.

"With performing experience I'm confident in dancing Giselle to treat audiences with unforgettable memories of classical ballet art."

Hằng is one of the soloists at the theatre. She nurtured a passion for dance from an early age. She is not only a talented dancer but also highly praised for her profound acting skills and ability to express intricate emotions.

She won gold medals at International Dance Festival in 2017 and in 2019. She won the best dancer at National Dance, Sing and Music Festival in 2021.

The role of Albrecht will be performed by young talent Nguyễn Đức Hiếu. He is known for his exceptional skills and expressive performances.

He was honoured at Asian Grand Prix in Hong Kong in 2018 and won a scholarship at San Francisco Ballet School from 2018 to 2019. He won a gold medal at the National Dance Talent Festival in 2020.

Giselle is choreographed by veteran artist Lưu Thu Lan and inspired by the work of choreographers Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot.

The music by French composer Adolphe Adam will be performed by the theatre orchestra under the baton of Japanese conductor Kotaro Kimura.

The ballet will begin at 8pm at Hà Nội Opera House. Call 0977377456 and 0902218185 or visit website https://nhahatnhacvukichvietnam.com/en/ve-ban/ or fanpage facebook.com/vnob.org for ticket information. — VNS