Evelio Sierra

I realize this may be a tough question to answer since few ballerinas have the technical and dramatic abilities to dance both roles successfully.

My favorite Odette is Natalia Makarova. No other ballerina I've seen has captured the pathos of the character or brought out the poetry of Ivanov's choreography more eloquently than her. Some may not like her swan mannerisms, but to me they're exquisite.

I've yet to see the perfect Odile. Plisetskaya acted and danced the role to the hilt, so she's probably my first choice. Makarova would be a close second, even though she didn't project Odile's wickedness as effectively as Plisetskaya.

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My favorite Odile/Odette was Alicia Alonso, and I should mention also her Giselle, because Alicia was born to prevent Giselle's death.

:mellow:

I friend of mine said that the original production of Giselle has the wilis in Act II set in a ballroom, all wearing different costumes? Is this true?

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On one hand I doubt it, but on the other hand I have seen so many queer things that something like this wouln't surprise me. I would not approve it anyway.

Evelio.