Ballet San Antonio will debut Giselle at the Tobin Center from October 17-19, blending romance and betrayal with Halloween-worthy ghostly themes.
SAN ANTONIO — Ballet San Antonio is preparing for the ambitious and epic debut of its fall production, Giselle, a story of romance, grief and betrayal.
Giselle will be performed over multiple shows the weekend of Oct. 17-19, at the Tobin Center.
The classic ballet, first performed in Paris in 1841, tells the story of a peasant girl who falls in love with a nobleman in disguise. Separated from her love, Giselle dies of heartbreak and transforms into a vengeful spirit. She is eventually redeemed when she protects the man she loves from other vengeful spirits.
Ballet San Antonio artists say the story is a perfect one for the spooky Halloween season.
“I am a big fan of horror. I love the stories of people who come back from the grave. I love stories of heartbreak, stories of revenge… everything that initiates strong emotions in people,” said Rafael Ferreras, the artistic director of Ballet San Antonio.
Ferreras says the dramatic storyline of Giselle gives these professional dancers a chance to stretch thier acting skills in addition to the dance choreography.
“This comes from a time where the theater aspect of it was the important part,” Ferreras said. “It’s a story of revenge against men who have wronged you, these are all things people can relate to.”
Dancers Brenna Mulligan and Michael Agudelo agreed that the unique story is what drives the production.
“We all go through that grief, that sorrow, but we can always come out on top,” Mulligan said. “It’s a beautiful, beautiful story and it’s not always happy in the end, but it’s always right.”
“It’s a relatable story for everyone and it also fits on brand for Halloween,” Agudelo said. “Come see our scary ghost story at the Tobin Center October 17th, 18th and 19th.”