Review: Re-telling a Twist of a Story with DADA MASILO/THE DANCE FACTORY

On the evening of April 3, 2018, The Dance Factory led by Artistic Director Dada Masilo returned to The Joyce Theater following their successful season back in 2016. Masilo- who is known for her unique and innovative interpretations of classical ballets such as Romeo and Juliet, Carmen, and Swan Lake- presented the New York premiere of her latest work, Giselle. This is not the original story that audiences have come to know for generations. But rather, retells and reimagines the story from a feminist lens with a twist.

In the initial story of Giselle, a young peasant girl (Giselle), unknowingly falls in love with a nobleman who is actually engaged to another. Upon finding out the truth, the broken-hearted girl kills herself. The Wilis, a group of supernatural women who dance men to their death, summon Giselle to dance with the nobleman to his death. But saved by Giselle's love and forgiveness he is freed from the Wilis' grasp.

The beginning Masilo's version of the beloved tale starts the same. However, things take an interesting twist when Giselle discovers her lover isn't who she thought and that he is set to be married to another woman. Not only is the nobleman exposed for who is he, but he pretends not to know Giselle, leaving her heartbroken and embarrassed, ultimately leading to her death. The Wilis are a group of angry women who seek revenge by bringing death to those who have wronged them. Giselle joins the Wilis and goes after the man she thought she loved for her revenge. He begs for her forgiveness, but it is too little, too late. As opposed to the ballet being the story of love, it becomes one of, deceit, anger, and betrayal.

Masilo brings a different flavor to the traditional story by combining classical ballet with contemporary and African dance, while infusing her culture and heritage from South Africa. The music incorporates classical music and inserts different African rhythms on the drums. There are also some traditional songs such as a funeral hymn. Additionally, there is some acting that is performed in both English and Zulu, a South African language.

I found this dance to be very intriguing. I walked into the theater not knowing what to expect, but I enjoyed it. I appreciated the contrast in the quality of movements throughout the choreography. The African moves are grounded and sharp while the contemporary moves are light and smooth. The members of The Dance Factory are just remarkable. Their ability to transition from one style to another was so seamless it was effortless. I appreciate the different interpretation of this story. As much as we desire for it, not everyone has a happy ending. I also enjoyed the fact that it emphasizes a strong female lead. It is a non-traditional, unconventional, and revolutionary piece that is pushing the boundaries of storytelling in dance.

Dada Masilo's "Giselle" - The Dance Factory, Johannesburg (2017). Photo by John Hogg

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