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Dorés Andre as Manon and Max Cauthorn as Des Grieux in MacMillan's Manon // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by RJ Muna

MANON

MANON

MacMillan at his best

Manon delves into the clash between love and ambition through a tragic tale of desire and survival. An impoverished French woman struggles between genuine love and the lure of luxury, ultimately discovering that her quest for opulence leads to ruin. Sir Kenneth MacMillan's acclaimed work provides profound insights into human psychology and the destructive nature of desire. Based on Abbé Prévost's 1731 novel, this influential ballet, presented with original sets and costumes from the Royal Ballet, makes its Bay Area debut.

WHO IT'S FOR: Anyone who relished British Icons last Season, period piece enthusiasts, and high drama aficionados who enjoy watching familial conflict, card sharps, and gut-wrenching heartbreak play out on the stage.

"With a company of this caliber, you’re guaranteed to get a memorable performance no matter who you see dance.”BroadwayWorld

"San Francisco Ballet’s ‘Manon’ sets stage for big, dramatic, British season"Datebook

"'Manon' kicks off SF Ballet's British invasion" – SF Examiner

Content Advisory: This production of Manon includes guns/weapons and instances of sexual violence.

Due to mature themes, this ballet is recommended for ages 14 and up.

Experience more this Season with a 24/25 Season Package.

Dores André as Manon and Max Cauthorn as Des Grieux in MacMillan's Manon // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by RJ Muna

SF Ballet Premiere

CHOREOGRAPHER
Sir Kenneth MacMillan

COMPOSER
Jules Massenet

Runtime

Act I – 42 min
Intermission – 20 min
Act II – 47 min
Intermission – 15 min
Act III – 35 min

Total runtime: 2 hours, 39 minutes

 

VIEW PROGRAM BOOK

VIEW CASTING

Casting, times, and program subject to change

The Story of Manon

The tragic tale of love, betrayal, and sacrifice

The tragic tale of love, betrayal, and sacrifice

Who’s Who in Manon

Deep Dive on the Characters of MacMillan’s Masterpiece

Deep Dive on the Characters of MacMillan’s Masterpiece

Meet the Artist: Alban Lendorf

Get to know the guest dancer onstage in Manon

Get to know the guest dancer onstage in Manon

With MacMillan’s Manon Comes Wearable Dance History

Lavish designs tell the story

Lavish designs tell the story

Who is Sir Kenneth MacMillan

A Leading Choreographer of his Generation

A Leading Choreographer of his Generation

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Manon (SF Ballet Premiere)

Choreographer: Sir Kenneth MacMillan
Composer: Jules Massenet
Arranged and Orchestrated: Martin Yates
Arranged by: Leighton Lucas
Staged by: Robert Tewsley
Additional Principal Coaching: Tamara Rojo and Julio Bocca
Scenic and Costume Design: Nicholas Georgiadis
Lighting Design: Jacopo Pantani
World Premiere: March 7, 1974–The Royal Ballet, Royal Opera House; London, England
SF Ballet Premiere: January 24, 2025–War Memorial Opera House; San Francisco, California