GISELLE opened the State Street Ballet’s 2023 / 2024 season October 21 and 22 in true Santa Barbara style, accompanied by the Santa Barbara Symphony. This love story for the ages, haunted by the spirits of maidens doomed to dance through darkness, will take you on a journey through a kaleidoscope of emotions. From joyous celebration to betrayal and the redemption of tender forgiveness, GISELLE was a richly rewarding entertainment experience that dazzled us and warmed our souls.

The principal dancers were extraordinary: guest artist Nerea Barrondo danced the title role with grace and finesse. Barrondo was born in the Basque Country and moved to Moscow at the age of 14 to attend the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet Academy. She also worked with Gelsey Kirkland Ballet in New York City. 

Ryan Lenkey was magnificent as Albrecht; he is a powerful stage presence, an electric, emotional dancer with exceptional high leaps and turns. His considerable acting skills were convincing and moving. Lenkey is a West Virginia native who trained at Pittsburgh Youth Ballet, Next Generation Ballet, Boston Ballet, School of American Ballet, and Ballet West. He also serves as associate director of The Male Dance Connection, an organization dedicated to supporting the dance community across the country by providing a platform for male dancers to connect and grow together.

Choreography was by Jean Coralli, Jules Perrot, and Marius Petipa; Music by Adolphe Adam and the Sanat Barbar Symphony was conducted by Nir Kabaretti.

State Street Ballet’s The Nutcracker December 16 and 17 will serve up holiday tradition with all of the grandeur Santa Barbarans have come to cherish. Over 150 professional dancers, musicians, and ballet students will join forces to bring this annual celebration to the stage for three magical performances.

For tickets and more information, visit https://www.statestreetballet.com/performances/category/all-events