The Language of Flowers in Giselle
Giselle is one of the oldest (and most beloved) ballets. Giselle premiered in Paris during the Victorian era, a time when audiences were fascinated by nature and the symbolic meanings of flowers. That fascination is woven throughout the ballet, adding a secret layer of meaning through floral symbolism. Pacific Northwest Ballet’s production of Giselle […]
Meet the Giselle Characters
Giselle features some of the most beloved characters in ballet. Today on the PNB Blog, we’re breaking down who’s who. Familiarize yourself with each one, so when the show starts, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy this timeless story!
Artistic Director’s Notebook: Giselle 2026
Dear Friends, Giselle has enthralled audiences since its premiere in Paris in 1841. I’ll do the math for you—that’s 185 years ago. Despite the years, audiences seem as intrigued today as they were on opening night. There are a few reasons why Giselle works. First, the plot is so good. As the curtain rises on […]
Giselle Pantomime Guide
Learn the mime gestures used in Giselle, from “love” and “beautiful” to “marry” and “grief.” A visual guide to understanding ballet’s expressive storytelling.
Subscriber Postlude: Kent Stowell’s Notes on Firebird
PNB Founding Artistic Director Kent Stowell shares the history behind creating Firebird and building PNB’s repertory and audience since 1977.
Giselle Sets: Before and After
Go behind the scenes to see how PNB’s scenic team hand-paints the stunning sets for Giselle, designed by Jérôme Kaplan, from sketch to stage.
The Story of Momotaro
Discover the Japanese folktale of Momotaro, a brave boy born from a peach who befriends a dog, monkey, and pheasant to defeat the ogres.
A Day in the Life of a Professional Division Student: Rehearsing Momotaro
Follow PD student Christopher Karhunen through a busy rehearsal day as he prepares to dance the lead role in PNB’s new ballet Momotaro.
The Story of Firebird
Prince Ivan captures the magical Firebird and spares her life. She helps him defeat the sorcerer Kastchei and free the captive princesses.
Artistic Director’s Notebook: Little mortal jump, Red Angels, Firebird
Artistic Director Peter Boal previews PNB’s Firebird revival, Alejandro Cerrudo’s Little mortal jump, and Ulysses Dove’s Red Angels. Read insider details.