English National Ballet – Manon at Manchester Opera House
Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor
Manon is a full-blooded production of love, luxury and passion from the English National Ballet. This classic ballet follows the story of Manon, a young woman torn between two lives: privilege and opulence with a wealthy gentleman, or innocent love with the penniless student she has fallen for.
Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon is based on an eighteenth-century novel by French author Antoine François Prévost. Considered a controversial work of its time, Manon Lescaut was banned when it was first published in 1731 before it became hugely popular on the back of pirated copies. Since Manon’s story was released it has inspired numerous adaptations, including a film by Henri-Georges Clouzot and operas by Massenet and Puccini.
Manon is the captivating heroine at the heart of this astounding production – beautiful and impulsive – she loves romance almost as much as she loves diamonds. Manon meets and falls in love with the young and handsome student Des Grieux and the pair elope to Paris. But when the wealthy Monsieur G.M. asks Manon to be his mistress she is torn between a life with Des Grieux and one of luxury. And wanting it all will be her downfall.
Surprisingly this is only the second time that this production has toured outside of London in the last 30 years, making this is a rare opportunity to witness this ballet masterpiece in the ornate surroundings of the Manchester Opera House’s proscenium arch. Popular with audiences, the power of MacMillan’s choreography, as well as the continuing relevance of Manon’s message, has secured its place as a modern classic. And if you haven’t watched the English National Ballet in the beautiful space of the Manchester Opera House now is your chance. It really will be an experience to treasure.
