In Dada Masilo’s version of the classical ballet Giselle Myrtha, Queen of the Wilis, is a Sangoma. The Wilis are spirits/ ancestors who literally call Giselle to join them. They are not a group of sweet, sad girls, but rather something more terrifying…. They have been had. They are heartbroken. And they want revenge. Their spirits can only be free if they bring about the deaths of those who wronged them. Giselle does not forgive. After her revenge, she is released from the mortal world and she too can be free.”
“This is Dada Masilo’s fourth reinterpretation of a great classic to make its South African debut at the National Arts Festival: Romeo and Juliet (2008, Standard Bank Young Artist for Dance), Carmen (2009) and Swan Lake (2010).
Cast: Dada Masilo, Khaya Ndlovu, Nadine Buys, Zandile Constable, Ipeleng Merafe, Liyabuya Gongo, Kyle Rossouw, Llewellyn Mnguni, Tshepo Zasekhaya, Thabani Ntuli, Thami Majela, Thami Tshabalala. Choreography: Dada Masilo. Drawings: William Kentridge. Music: Philip Miller with additional support from the SAMRO Foundation. Lighting: Suzette le Sueur.