Paris Opera Ballet to perform in Dubai

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Paris Opera Ballet to perform in Dubai We’ve had plenty of visits of late from Russian ballet companies – but this weekend, it’s the Paris Opera Ballet wowing the crowds. Though some may see all ballet in the same light, ballet coach to the Paris Opera Ballet company, Laurent Novis explains that French ballet is quite different to Russian, with the moves and choreography echoing the culture. “French ballet is more fluid and gentle – maybe a little bit more held-back. It’s similar to the people. In the same token – Russian ballet is big, and energetic, very dramatic – which echoes Russian culture – the writing and art. What makes French ballet, just that, is the graceful, but more refined movements,” he explains. “It’s quite easy to differentiate when you see the dancing styles.” The gala will showcase a variety of French ballet numbers, culminating in the tragic love story, Gisele. Laurent explains that the gala is a sampling of French ballet. “It’s like a taste test – it’s carefully curated pieces, to show the audience some of the best of French ballet, it’s not one epic story, it’s small pieces of many.” Decorated principal ballerina (or ‘etoiles’ in French), Dorothee Gilbert will be starring as Gisele, and says the movements of the classic masterpiece are challenging due to their restraint. “Gisele is a challenge, it’s not physically as extreme or energetic as some of the other pieces, but there are scenes where Gisele appears weightless, and has to float. This is so challenging, because one bit of noise can destroy the illusion and break the audience out of their trance.” Dorothee began dancing when she was just eight years old, and is now one of the most famous ballerinas in France. The 32-year-old practises anywhere from three to eight hours per day, a grueling task, though her eye twinkles when she speaks about her career choice. “Being announced as the etoiles dancer for the first time, it’s just, it’s all the work in my life coming together. That feeling is wonderful, it’s like a dream come true – from being a young girl wanting to be a ballerina.” Her co-star, Hugo Marchand is just 22 years old, and has worked with Dorothee in previous seasons. He’s looking forward to dancing with Dorothee for another season and performing Gisele. “The emotion in Gisele is magical – the choreography, after the pas de deux with Dorothee, this man is dancing with such emotion, it’s because he feels so deeply. It’s such an expressive piece.” Showing Thursday and Friday at The Madinat. See madinatjumeirah.etix.com for ticketing. caitlyn@7days.ae Read the original story at: Paris Opera Ballet to perform in Dubai