Mats Ek's Giselle

Mats Ek's radical reimagining of the classic ballet "Giselle" places the story in a 19th-century asylum. Giselle, a fragile young woman, is ostracized and driven to madness by the villagers and the manipulative Albert. Her descent into delusion and eventual death is a poignant commentary on societal cruelty and the tragic fate of the vulnerable. In the second act, the spectral 'Wilis' and Giselle's ghost seek revenge on errant lovers, but Ek's interpretation offers a more complex and empathetic resolution.

Mats Ek's "Giselle" was a groundbreaking and highly influential production that polarized audiences and critics alike. While some found its modern, psychological approach jarring, many lauded its innovative choreography, profound emotional depth, and powerful social commentary. It is widely considered a masterpiece of contemporary ballet, celebrated for its fearless deconstruction of a beloved classic.

• Praised for its bold, psychological reinterpretation of the classic narrative.

• Admired for its intense emotional impact and empathetic portrayal of Giselle's plight.

• Choreography deemed innovative, challenging, and deeply expressive.

Google audience: Audience reception for this production is difficult to quantify through standard review platforms, but it is historically noted as a landmark performance that sparked significant discussion and admiration among ballet aficionados for its daring artistic vision.

In Mats Ek's version, the 'Wilis' are not just vengeful spirits of jilted lovers, but also represent the institution's staff, adding a layer of psychological horror and critique of mental health treatment in the 19th century.