Preview: Giselle/Kirov Ballet

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Few companies can rival the altitude of extensions, quantity of consecutive flawless spins and all-around razor-sharp technical chops put on display by the Kirov Ballet. Every jaw-dropping combination is executed with such ease (and frequency) that the company has been criticized for lumping together flashy steps at the expense of artistic merit and emotional depth. But this is quintessential Russian School and technical one-upmanship is part of the unwritten curriculum.

This weekend the Kirov Ballet brings “Giselle” to the Auditorium Theater. Legendary choreographer Marius Petipa created definitive revivals of Adolphe Adam’s tale of betrayal and forgiveness for the Kirov pre-Revolution—back when the company was known as the Imperial Russian Ballet. “Giselle” is a signature ballet in the repertory and will be performed with the full orchestra—a grand kick-off to the Auditorium’s fall season. (Sharon Hoyer)

At the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway, (312)902-1500. October 2-5.

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