NORTHERN Ballet kicks off its new 50th anniversary season with an evocative original ballet, Geisha.

It’s the story of two young women whose lives are torn painfully apart as encounters from beyond the grave unleash an unexpected vengeance on their world. Geisha premières at Leeds Grand Theatre next week, followed by a tour.

Aiko and Okichi are inseparable until a collision between East and West begins to change their lives forever. Bound to be hospitable to their western visitors, the two young geishas find themselves irrevocably set on different paths. As Okichi

falls into despair, she seeks freedom from dishonour in death. But instead of finding peace, Okichi passes through the veil of the spirit world and returns to the world of the living as a ghostly apparition.

Driven by hurt and rage, she takes her revenge and heedlessly shatters Aiko’s life. Only an act of true devotion will help Okichi find redemption.

Geisha is the second ballet choreographed by Kenneth Tindall, Northern Ballet’s Choreographer in Residence, whose previous work for the company includes the acclaimed Casanova.

“ The mysterious, intriguing world of the Geisha is the perfect palette with which to paint this ballet ,” says Kenneth.

* Geisha is at Leeds Grand Theatre from March 14-21. Call 0844 848 2700.