Akram Khan's Giselle [Tamaro Rojo; James Streeter; Jeffrey Cirio; Stina Quagebeur; English National Ballet] [Opus Arte: OA1284D] [DVD] [NTSC]

This is quite spectacular for most of the performance. On only a few occasions did it become a bit monotonous, but overall the scenery, costumes, lighting, and choreography were refreshingly different and stimulating. The music is dynamic and powerful. The dancers were brilliant, showing that their dramatic abilities matched their dancing technique. The extras were enlightening, but the section about the costume making could have been longer. A lot of hard work and dedication has produced a wonderful experience. One reviewer criticised the camerawork, but I did not notice anything untoward. If I could award 4.5 stars, then that would be an accurate review in my opinion, but I shall go for 4.

I only saw this on a Live Screening since I couldn't get a reasonably priced ticket to see it performed on stage in London. I was greatly impressed on seeing it on screen by the dramatic tension created in this production. On two viewings of this Blu Ray, I can appreciate the powerful acting abilities shown by all the cast that has been created to give a work that has resonances for today. The performances by the principals of this drama are first rate especially that of Tamara Rojo whose dancing and acting skills are sensational. This is a ballet that I am pleased to own on disc since iy will be played several more times and I know that every one will give me great pleasure since it will give me a deeper understanding of this great work. This Blu Ray is well filmed and the sound is very good and I cannot find fault with it at all..

I am devastated that timing hasn't allowed me to see this on the stage yet, it is clear from this DVD that it is an absolutely phenomenal ballet. However it is a shame that it has been so drastically let down by such disgraceful camera work, I don't know if the camera crew were on some ego-trip or what their excuse is for the appalling mess they have made out of this ballet, they need to go back to school and be taught that sometimes less is more. It is a testament to the English National Ballet that despite this travesty the DVD is still well worth the money.

Absolutely inspiring and emotional reinterpretation of Giselle, Akram Khan's Giselle is based on modern life with migrant workers substituting the villagers of the original and factory owners substituting the noblemen in this truly emotional piece of contemporary dance. A superb piece of ballet especially for those put off by classical versions. I first saw it premier at Sadlers Wells and was absolutely blown away at the drama and originality.If you've been put off ballet in the past try this, it is totally different. A spellbinding fusion of dance and performing arts.

Love everything about this masterpiece. The choreography, set, costumes, lighting just 1st class. Was fortunate to see this performance live from the evening they recorded it, and to be able to relive it time and again on DVD is amazing. Sometimes you can lose the atmosphere on a recording but not this one, took me right back to that night. A triumph and a definite must see for any enthusiast of dance/performing arts. Khan and the ENB are just the perfect combination.

I saw this performed in the Liverpool empire where it was also filmed and was mesmerised by it, I then went and watched it when in was screened in the vue cinema and have now bought it on dvd and it is still as engaging after the 3rd time seeing this ballet. It’s absolutely beautiful to watch and gripping at the same time, if you only watch one ballet make sure it’s this one.

Got this to watch with my daughter to support her 1st year exam assignment. Really enjoyed it and found the modern dance of the gazelle amazing with fantastic light, shading and sound.

Do not expect any of what you have seen before to be on show here. This is completely different and hardly recogniseable as Giselle. However it is one of the most exciting pieces of modern ballet I have ever witnessed. The choreography is new and brilliant. The dancing captivating. The music hypnotic. A wonderful recording.