English National Ballet Mary Skeaping’s Giselle Returns to London Coliseum

As part of its 75th season, English National Ballet returns to the London Coliseum with performances of Mary Skeaping’s Giselle from 15-18 January 2025.

One of the greatest Romantic ballets, Giselle features some of ballet’s most dramatic scenes and otherworldly images. Choreographer Mary Skeaping spent years researching the original 1841 ballet and her thoughtfully staged version was premiered by London Festival Ballet (now English National Ballet) in 1971.

A much-treasured production in the Company’s repertoire to this day, Skeaping’s traditional take with its beautiful classical language uses Adolphe Adam’s score almost entirely, performed live by English National Ballet Philharmonic.

The 2024-2025 season marks Erina Takahashi’s last as Lead Principal at English National Ballet before she steps into a full-time role as Repetiteur with the Company, whilst also exploring other artistic opportunities as a dancer. Erina opens the Manchester and London runs of Giselle, reprising the title role. These mark Erina’s last performances in this role and her last UK performances as a Lead Principal at English National Ballet.

Erina Takahashi said: “These will be very special performances for me as I say goodbye and thank you to English National Ballet’s audiences that have watched me dance over the years. I want to dedicate my last few shows to every person that has helped me so far on my journey – I will be forever grateful for your support, thank you for giving me the chance to do what I love. After over 29 years performing, I’m now excited to embark on my next chapter with the Company as Repetiteur where I’ll be able to pass on my knowledge to the next generation of dancers.”

Alongside performances, English National Ballet will host a series of in-theatre workshops, including a Live Dynamic Drawing workshop for visual artists at the London Coliseum offering a unique insight into the world of ballet. For more information see ballet.org.uk/whats-on/events-and-workshops/

Mary Skeaping’s Giselle closes English National Ballet’s winter season at the London Coliseum, which also includes the world premiere of Nutcracker by the Company’s Artistic Director Aaron S. Watkin, and Olivier Award-winning choreographer Arielle Smith.

Visit ballet.org.uk to book now.

English National Ballet dancers in Mary Skeaping’s Giselle, Photo credit Emily Nuttall