A Lost Feminist Perspective: Re-examining the power of the Wilis

Abstract:

Giselle is one of the most popular works of the ballet canon, performed and studied by countless companies and academics. The Wilis, a group of single women, have long been believed to be hazardous and dangerous to the social structure of the era in which they were born. Many argue the ballet is a dark mark for gender politics, suggesting that unmarried women were a source of fear and suspicion during the nineteenth century. Yet our understanding of the characters of Giselle is skewed by twenty first century notions of women as well as the countless reworkings of the ballet that we see today. This paper examines the role of women in French society and the public’s reaction to the ballet at the time of its creation, in order to provide a better understanding of the role of women in Giselle. Rather than a warning about the possible terror of women, I argue the Wili in Giselle represents a leap of power in how women are portrayed onstage. By examining the social structures of nineteenth century France both on and offstage, this research situates the Wilis in the era in which they were created to better understand the social implications of the ballet. Giselle was a brave step forward for women; changing the way females could hold power on stage and paving the way for feminist ideas that would not be identified for another century.

 

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Presented by Julia Cooper, Instructor; Colorado State University

 

Biography:

Julia is a teacher, artist, and choreographer. She began her career in Fort Collins, Colorado as a Canyon Concert Ballet Company member. She earned her BFA from The University of Wyoming and has studied with companies such as American Repertory Theatre, Trey McIntyre Project, Alonzo King Lines Ballet, Repertory Dance Theatre, Ririe Woodberry, and Complexions Contemporary Ballet.

Julia spent two years dancing in New York City performing with Ballet Inc and Sheep Meadow Dance Theatre, which involved a variety of venues, including the Battery Dance Festival. Julia also had the opportunity to guest with several photographers, working both as a dancer and model.

Julia completed her MFA in dance choreography from The University of Iowa. During her three years at Iowa she expanded her choreographic research with a focus on historical context, the use of narrative, and an emphasis on human connection. Her work aims to make ballet approachable in an effort to expand its influence beyond traditional boundaries and across generations. Julia is now on faculty and continuing her research at Colorado State University in the dance department.