Maria Seletskaja, a former prima ballerina and now one of the busiest female conductors in the world, meets us behind the stage of the Coliseum Theatre in London, where she reflects on her journey in the world of music. Seletskaja recalls bringing her seven-week-old daughter with her on her first visit to conduct, highlighting the challenges of juggling motherhood with a demanding career in the arts. Her current project involves leading a contemporary version of "Giselle" choreographed by Akram Khan, which presents a starkly modern setting that contrasts the romance of the original ballet.

The latest adaptation of "Giselle" merges traditional ballet with innovative electronic music, elevating the emotional intensity of the performance. This modern interpretation has transformed the idyllic village backdrop into a poignant portrayal of a war-torn world inhabited by refugees. Seletskaja notes the mixed reactions it has elicited, with some audience members praising its fresh approach, while others remain firmly attached to the classic version of the ballet, indicating a broader conversation about tradition versus modernity in the performing arts.

The duality of opinions surrounding Khan's "Giselle" reflects a larger societal debate about the responsibilities of art in contemporary contexts. Seletskaja's commitment to her craft and her ability to navigate both her conductor's duties and her role as a mother make her a compelling figure within the world of music. Through her work, she continues to challenge the norms of classical ballet and redefine the narrative of motherhood in the arts, inspiring others to embrace change while respecting tradition.