Korean National Ballet, Universal Ballet to perform ‘Giselle’ in April and November, respectively

Last year, Korea's ballet scene saw the rise of a new ballet sensation and the reunion of two of the country’s most celebrated ballet stars after a decade.

Two major ballet companies -- the Korean National Ballet and Universal Ballet -- have unveiled captivating lineups for this year, suggesting another thrilling year that includes classic favorites, Korean premieres and the return of unique performances.

"The Lady of the Camellias" (Kiran West/Hamburg Ballet)

Korean National Ballet premiere of 'The Lady of the Camellias'

Following the success of its Korean premiere of John Neumeier’s "The Little Mermaid" last year, the Korean National Ballet will present the Korean premiere of the American choreographer's "The Lady of the Camellias" at the Seoul Arts Center from May 7 to 11.

Kang Sue-jin (center) as Marguerite in
Kang Sue-jin (center) as Marguerite in "The Lady of the Camellias" (Photo by Sunkyung Reina Jang)

First staged by the Stuttgart Ballet in 1978, Neumeier’s drama ballet draws inspiration from Alexandre Dumas' 1848 novel of the same title. Set to the evocative and romantic compositions of Frederic Chopin, the story centers on the poignant and ill-fated love affair between Marguerite Gautier, a Parisian courtesan stricken with tuberculosis, and Armand Duval, a young bourgeois.

Kang Sue-jin, the artistic director of the Korean National Ballet, became the first Asian ballerina to win the prestigious Benois de la Danse award in 1999 for for her portrayal of Marguerite with the Stuttgart Ballet.

"The Love of Chunhyang" (Universal Ballet)

Universal Ballet brings classic folk tale in 'The Love of Chunhyang'

Universal Ballet will present its acclaimed production “The Love of Chunhyang” this June, with choreography by its artistic director Liu Bingxian. Premiered in 2007, the production is celebrated for its reinterpretation of the Korean folk tale into the language of classical ballet set to Tchaikovsky's score.

The story of Chunhyang is one of Korea’s most beloved and enduring tales, passed down through generations in the form of pansori, a traditional form of epic storytelling.

Chunhyang, the daughter of gisaeng (a Korean equivalent of a courtesan), and Mongryong, the son of a local aristocrat, fall in love against the odds. When Mongryong has to go to Hanyang (present-day Seoul), a greedy new governor attempts to force Chunhyang into becoming his concubine. Refusing his advances, she is threatened with death but is ultimately saved by Mongryong's timely return.

The production’s key highlights include a passionate pas de deux between Chunhyang and Mongryong and a dynamic group dance by the male corps de ballet.

"Giselle" (Korean National Ballet)

'Giselle' and more

After a captivating showdown of "La Bayadere" in the fall, with UB featuring 20-year-old sensation Jeon Min-chul (set to join the Mariinsky Ballet this year) and KNB featuring beloved ballet stars Kim Ki-min (Mariinsky Ballet) and Park Sae-eun (Paris Opera Ballet), the two companies will bring another match-up with "Giselle" this year, each offering its choreographic renditions of the iconic romantic ballet.

Universal Ballet will present Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot's choreography as the season opener in April, while KNB will stage Patrice Bart’s interpretation of the ballet in November.

"Giselle" (Universal Ballet)

"Giselle," based on the 19th-century French poet Theophile Gautier's work, tells the tragic story of Giselle, a young peasant girl who dies of heartbreak after discovering her lover Albrecht's betrayal. In death, she becomes a spirit, determined to protect her love even beyond the grave.

Act 1 features the lively rural setting and Giselle’s famous mad scene upon learning of Albrecht's engagement to another woman, while Act 2 showcases the ethereal and stunning white ballet corps of the Wilis, a group of vengeful spirits.

"The Little Mermaid" (Korean National Ballet)

In June, KNB will present the Kylian Project, a triple bill featuring Jiri Kylian’s choreography -- “Forgotten Land,” “Falling Angels” (Korean premiere) and Sechs Tanze” -- at the soon-to-be opened GS Arts Center in Yeoksam-dong. Additionally, the company will bring back Neumeier’s “The Little Mermaid” for a second run in August.

Meanwhile, Universal Ballet will stage “Swan Lake” in July.

Both companies will close the year with their year-end steady seller “The Nutcracker” in December.