words: Eleanor Joslin
A tragic tale of passion, romance and opulence promises to enthral Welsh audiences at the Wales Millennium Centre as Manon pursues a love that is constantly plagued by misfortune.
Set in decadent 18th century Paris, this emotive ballet is a world away from annual classics like The Nutcracker or Swan Lake; it’s almost a balletic Moulin Rouge, with Jules Massanet’s accompanying evocative score bringing to the fore a sense of Parisian culture of luxury and poverty, with both vitality and affliction.
This production, performed by the English National Ballet, follows Manon, a beautiful young woman who falls in love with des Grieux, a penniless student. After a wealthy admirer appeals to her greed for privilege and wealth, persuading her to sacrifice love to be his courtesan, the future of her relationship with Grieux is doomed to tragedy and turbulence, interrupted at every chance of happiness.
Manon was created for the Royal Ballet in 1974 but has not been performed outside London for over twenty years. This latest production stars the legendary Agnes Oaks and her husband Thomas Edur in the lead dancing roles, and will be their final season with the National Ballet and one of the last chances to see these celebrated ballet dancers perform together.
With over six dozen dancers performing Kenneth MacMillan’s breathtaking and lusty choreography, Manon is a must-see innovative ballet that will delight and captivate both ballet regulars and newcomers alike.
Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff, Tues 28 April–Sat 2 May
Tickets: £10-35. More info here