Dancing Manon
Manon is a challenging role to perform, both technically and emotionally. Hear from Lead Principal Alina Cojocaru and Guest Repetiteur Viviana Durante, and meet the other key characters in Manon's story.
Manon: Alina Cojocaru on being in the moment | English National BalletEnglish National Ballet
Alina Cojocaru on being in the moment
Alina explains her process for balancing the technical and emotional demands of performing a role like Manon and how this has changed over the years.
Manon: Viviana Durante on the challenging title role | English National BalletEnglish National Ballet
Manon: Viviana Durante on the challenging title role
Viviana Durante danced the role of Manon many times to great acclaim from critics and audiences alike. We were fortunate to have her join us as Guest Repetiteur in 2018.
Joseph Caley in ManonEnglish National Ballet
Other key roles — Des Grieux
A young, idealistic student, Des Grieux falls in love with Manon at first sight.
Joseph Caley in ManonEnglish National Ballet
He is heartbroken when Manon decides on a life of security and comfort with Monsieur GM rather than a penniless lovers' life with him.
Joseph Caley and Alina Cojocaru in ManonEnglish National Ballet
Des Grieux never abandons Manon, following her when she is deported to New Orleans. He is played in this production by ENB Lead Principal Joseph Caley.
Manon: Jeffrey Cirio as Lescaut (extract) | English National BalletEnglish National Ballet
Other key roles - Lescaut
Manon's brother Lescaut is charming but ruthless. He shows Manon affection, but then sells her to the highest bidder. He is played in this production by ENB Lead Principal Jeffrey Cirio.
Manon: Katja Khaniukova as Lescaut's Mistress (extract) | English National BalletEnglish National Ballet
Other key roles - Lescaut's mistress
The reigning beauty of the courtesans at Madame's house of ill repute, Lescaut's mistress is poorly treated by him, and sees Manon as a rival. She is played in this production by ENB First Soloist Katja Khaniuokva.
James Streeter, Alina Cojocaru and Jeffrey Cirio in ManonEnglish National Ballet
Other key roles — Monsieur GM
Monsieur GM is a wealthy man who is an acquaintance of Manon's brother Lescaut. He wishes to keep Manon as his mistress, and Lescaut is happy to accept the highest bid. He is played in this production by ENB First Soloist James Streeter.
