#TBT: Alessandra Ferri in Giselle
Alessandra Ferri, a former principal dancer with The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and La Scala Ballet, was known for bringing dramatic flair to her roles. In this clip from La Scala Ballet’s 1996 production of Giselle, Ferri demonstrates her animated artistry in the title role. Surrounded by villagers, she dances with both lightness and joy. Her performance is youthful and carefree as she effortlessly delivers a succession of ballonnés on pointe. Despite the step’s rigor, she maintains a radiant expression.
Born in Italy, Ferri began her training at Scuola del Teatro alla Scala before completing it at London’s Royal Ballet School. After graduation, she joined The Royal Ballet, rising to principal dancer at the young age of 19. This laid the groundwork for Ferri’s career as she went on to receive the Sir Laurence Olivier award at 21 and then join ABT at the invitation of Mikhail Baryshnikov in 1985. She also performed as a guest artist with companies such as the Mariinsky Ballet, Hamburg Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet, English National Ballet, and many more. In 1992, La Scala Ballet awarded her the rare title of “prima ballerina assoluta.” After a remarkably long career, Ferri gave her final performance in 2024. Now she moves into her next chapter, as artistic director; earlier this month, she officially took the reins of Vienna State Ballet. The company opens its season with Giselle, and we look forward to seeing how Ferri passes on her dramatic artistry and knowledge to the next generation of dancers. #HappyThrowbackThursday!
