Like lots of little girls, I used to dream of being a ballerina! As a child I loved my tutu and ballet shoes, I danced on stage but as an adult I’ve never seen a ballet at the theatre before.
This week I’ve been to the Manchester Opera House to see the multi award winning English National Ballet, Manon. Before receiving the press release I had never heard of this ballet before but I have since learnt how famous it is!
Manon was created in 1974 and remains to be one of Kenneth MacMillian’s most popular ballet. It is performed all over the world, however this is only the second time its been performed outside of London in the UK in 30 years!
As we arrived at the Opera House and took our seats, there was a real buzz about the theatre and it felt so exciting.
The story of Manon is one of love, passion and tragedy. Throughout the performance we follow Manon who is torn between true love and wealth. She falls in love with student Des Grieux but the rich Monsieur GM has other ideas .
The English National Philharmonic perform live the music of Jules Massenet. The choreography and the performances were flawless, the scenes between Manon and Des Grieux were captivating! Manon, played by Alina Cojocarut seems to float across the stage, she looked weightless with every lift and pirouette.
The ballerinas costumes were magnificent! Especially those of the courtesans, their beautiful tutus and dresses spun perfectly and took me right back to that dream I had of being a ballerina.
Manon is a tragic love story told through dance and music, the audience is taken on a journey of love, passion, humor and tragedy. This is a beautiful ballet that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Manon is being performed at the Manchester Opera House now until Saturday 20th October, tickets available here.
Out and about mummy 