Where can you see world-class performers at the pinnacle of their craft in Louisville?

Try Louisville Ballet. It's the fifth oldest continuously operating ballet company in the country, attracting immensely talented dancers from around the globe to perfect the art of dance right here in Derby City.

Recently, we were able to experience the power and elegance of the Ballet for ourselves with a performance of "Giselle," a classic tale of love and tragedy — think "Romeo and Juliet," but with fewer lines and more ghosts.

We tried the Louisville Ballet, and came away astonished at the pure athleticism of the performers. | Photo by LOUtoday

What we tried:

During the two-hour performance, dancers displayed some of the most athletic + acrobatic skills we've ever seen. We especially noticed the emotion of the performance. We weren't crying, you were crying.

What not to miss:

Arrive early and grab a program — it's your guide to the story that's about to unfold in front of you. There are no words in a ballet, but quickly thumbing through the program's pages as you sip a cocktail will help you understand the plot.

That way, you can focus on the spectacle of the performance — which is breathtaking — instead of asking your date about who's who.

The magnificent Brown Theatre opened in 1925 and it's not lost any of its grandeur. | Photo by LOUtoday

What we’re still talking about:

The talent + ability of the performers is astonishing. For two hours, they bounded about the stage, leaping, spinning and lifting one another into the air, all in perfectly synchronized unison. We don't know how they manage to do so much on their tip-toes.

We also loved the opulence of the Brown. Built in 1925, the place hasn't lost any of the grandeur of the Roaring Twenties. From the sparkling chandeliers hanging over the balcony to the intricate molding of classical figures around the stage, you'll find yourself lost in the architecture of the building while you wait for the curtain to raise.

The talent and skill of the Louisville Ballet performers was worthy of a standing ovation. | Photo by LOUtoday

How you can experience this:

Don't miss Louisville Ballet's final productions of the season including "The Brown-Forman Nutcracker," December 8-24, and "Romeo & Juliet," March 1-3. Tickets are available online.

Things to know if you go:

Experience: Louisville Ballet performance
Price: $39-$168 — price varies
Website: The Louisville Ballet
Address: Performance locations vary; Downtown Studios and Box Office is located at 315 E. Main St.
Hours: Performance times vary; Box Office is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
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