Cape Ballet Africa presents Maina Gielgud’s Giselle – a Timeless Ballet of Love, Betrayal, and Redemption

With the countdown on to the premiere of Maina Gielgud’s Giselle at The Baxter, Cape Ballet Africa has announced the principal cast and international guest artist for the performances this November.

International guest artist Solomon Osazuva will guest with Cape Ballet Africa in the role of Albrecht for the season, partnering Cape Ballet Africa’s Leanè Theunissen as Giselle.

Experience the other captivating partnerships with CBA’s very own Mia Coomber dancing Giselle with partner Gabriel Ravenscroft as Albrecht, as well as the wonderful Paige McElligott and Joshua Williams performing these roles on other dates.

Here’s everything you need to know about the iconic romantic ballet and this radiant adaptation.

Giselle is a Timeless Romance Brought to Life

Giselle remains one of ballet’s most cherished romantic masterpieces, a timeless story that weaves together love, deception, and the redemptive power of forgiveness. This production, choreographed by internationally acclaimed artist Maina Gielgud, brings fresh life to the classic tale with a sumptuous new set and costume design by the celebrated Michael Mitchell.

Set to the evocative score by Adolphe Adam, performed to a recording by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the production promises both visual and musical splendour.

At the heart of the story is Giselle, a gentle and radiant peasant girl whose joy lies in dance. She falls deeply in love with Albrecht, a nobleman who conceals his true identity by posing as a commoner. When Giselle learns of his betrayal and his betrothal to another, her heart shatters, and she descends into madness, dying of grief. In the second act, Albrecht seeks redemption in the moonlit realm of the Wilies – the restless spirits of betrayed brides – where Giselle’s spirit must choose between vengeance and compassion.

Exploring themes of love and loss, innocence and betrayal, body and spirit, Giselle endures as a poignant reflection on the fragility of the human heart. Its haunting beauty and emotional depth continue to captivate audiences across generations, affirming its place as one of the great romantic ballets of all time.

Don’t miss the chance to experience this unforgettable masterpiece brought to life on stage, with a ballet that will move you long after the final curtain falls.