Giselle Act II, Symphonic Variations, Le Beau Danube

BALLERINA'S TRIUMPH IN 'GISELLE'

Review by Constance Cummins

The eeriness of Giselle’s haunted forest contrasted strikingly with the sunny gaiety of “Le Beau Danube” in last night’s programme at Her Majesty’s.

The silvery green decor designed by Ken McCaffrey provided an atmospheric setting for “Giselle” (Act II). Though one of the oldest ballets in the classical repertoire, there is almost a touch of women’s lib about the story of the ghost – maidens – who seek revenge after death, on the men who have wronged them in life.

In the title role, a demanding one for any ballerina, Christine Dwyer scored a well-deserved triumph. Delightfully ethereal she seemed as light as a fluttering white moth in the pas de deux with Albrecht. Giselle’s change of heart when she decides to save Albrecht instead of destroying him, was eloquently conveyed by Miss Dwyer.

As the repentant Albrecht, Paul Wright, formerly of the Australian Ballet, danced elegantly. Jenny Stanfield impressed as the stately, unrelenting Queen.

The Courier-Mail, 27 November 1975.