Van Cleef & Arpels has long been enchanted by the world of dance, particularly ballet. This connection can be traced back to the 1920s, when Louis Arpels, an ardent admirer of ballet, would regularly take his nephew Claude to performances at the Paris Opera. Their shared passion inspired the creation of the Maison’s iconic ballerina clips in the 1940s.
These exquisite pieces, featuring dancers in mid-pirouettes with delicate diamond-studded tutus, embody the grace of the ballet world. The Maison’s relationship with dance was further solidified with George Balanchine‘s Jewels, a ballet created in collaboration with Claude Arpels in 1967, which celebrated the beauty of precious stones through the artistry of dance.
Van Cleef & Arpels has been supporting the Dubai Opera since its launch in 2016. Building on this legacy, Van Cleef & Arpels brings one of ballet’s most iconic masterpieces, Giselle, to the Dubai Opera from September 18 to 21. Performed by the distinguished Polish National Ballet and conducted by Patrick Fournillier, Giselle tells the story of a young peasant girl who, after being betrayed by her lover, succumbs to heartbreak and enters an ethereal realm of spirits. Choreographed by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot, the production captures the very essence of Romantic ballet with its delicate balance of human emotion and supernatural beauty. Set to the poignant score by Adolphe Adam, Giselle is a journey through love, loss, and redemption.
The ballet opens in a pastoral village, where Giselle, a spirited and innocent young girl, falls in love with Albrecht, a nobleman disguised as a peasant. When the truth of his identity and prior engagement is revealed, her fragile heart shatters, and she dies of grief. In death, Giselle becomes one of the Wilis, ghostly spirits of betrayed women who haunt the forests, luring men to their doom through endless, otherworldly dancing.
Since its premiere in 1841, Giselle has mesmerized audiences with its emotional depth and technical beauty. Performed at the Dubai Opera, this choreography showcases meticulous recreations of the original staging, paired with breathtaking costumes and sets. As you watch the dancers glide across the stage, you’ll be transported to a world where every movement speaks of heartache, forgiveness, and grace.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of Giselle at Dubai Opera.
ALSO READ: VAN CLEEF & ARPELS IS BRINGING ITS DAZZLING DANCE FESTIVAL TO THE UAE.
