Giselle [Blu-ray]

A fine alternative to the equally fine version from the Royal Ballet
This latest issue in the series of HD recordings from the Bolshoi Ballet was made in 2011 and brings their version of one of the most staple Romantic period ballets to our screens. In this case the choreography is by Grigorovich who has also created a memorable Spartacus and Nutcracker. The Bolshoi Ballet has always been renowned for their wonderful dancing, both solo and corps de ballet, so it is a pleasure to report that their return to recordings after an absence due to refurbishment has not resulted in any loss of their previous high standards.

The setting is therefore completely traditional as one would expect and the stage backdrop and flats are of the previous high quality that one would also expect of this company. In Act 1 the backdrop is particularly beautifully painted and the chosen autumnal colours are picked up in the very lovely dresses and peasant clothing of the female and male members of the corps de ballet. The aristocratic court is appropriately...

Stunning, Almost Ideal Giselle
The Bolshoi Ballet's production of Giselle, with choreography by Yuri Grigorovich after the traditional version, and set and costume designs by Simon Virsaladze, is an almost ideal production of the quintessential ballet. It goes without saying that choreographically and visually speaking, the ballet is absolutely perfect - it is all in the hands of the dancers. Dimitri Gudanov is admirable in this role, but it is Svetlana Lunkina who really shines. Her gestures, emotionality, and attenuated lines produce an ethereal and remarkable effect. I would watch this over and over again just for her, without counting her remarkable partner and the solid corps de ballet. As per usual of 'The Bolshoi Ballet: HD Collection', the video and audio is in very high definition, wonderfully filmed. I believe that this DVD is one of the must-have Giselles in any balletomane's collection.

Maximova's Student Made It !
I had seen some clips of Svetlana Lunkina's Giselle. One year ago this DVD was not available in the US. I left a comment on amazon.uk. When this DVD is published with DVD region code 1, I just simply bought it. I love Svetlana Lunkina's Giselle very much. She is a natural and light dancer. She continues Ulanova's tradition to dance as a pure, innocent and light Giselle. She is the best Giselle after Galina Ulanova, Ekaterina Maximova (Bolshoi Ballet). Hope this great tradition can go on forever. In Act II Svetlana Lunkina's technique and performance is almost perfect. She is like a piece of cloud, even lighter than Alina Cojocaru. Her dancing is not to jump high, but only move as air flowing. A Beautiful Giselle!

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