The Metropolitan Opera: Manon
The Metropolitan Opera: Manon

Movie spotlight

The Metropolitan Opera: Manon

2019
Movie
232 min
French

Massenet’s tale of passion, excess, and their consequences stars rising soprano Lisette Oropesa in the effervescent title role. Tenor Michael Fabiano is her ardent admirer, Chevalier des Grieux, with Maurizio Benini conducting Laurent Pelly’s enchanting production.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Laurent PellyGenres: Opera, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Based on the Abbé Prévost novel, Manon follows a beautiful young woman who abandons her convent education for a life of passion and luxury. She falls for the Chevalier des Grieux, but her desire for wealth leads her to abandon him for the Comte des Grieux, a wealthy nobleman. Her life becomes a cycle of love, betrayal, and ruin as she grapples with her desires and their consequences.

Critical Reception

The Metropolitan Opera's 2019 production of Massenet's Manon was generally well-received by critics, who praised the vocal performances, particularly Lisette Oropesa in the title role, and the imaginative staging. The production's blend of historical setting with a focus on the psychological depth of the characters resonated with audiences and critics alike.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Lisette Oropesa's vibrant and vocally stunning portrayal of Manon.

  • Laurent Pelly's production was noted for its inventive and visually engaging staging.

  • The performance was lauded for effectively capturing the opera's emotional arc and dramatic tension.

Google audience: Audience reception for The Metropolitan Opera's Manon production was largely positive, with many highlighting the exceptional vocal talents of the cast and the engaging theatrical experience.

Fun Fact

This production marked Lisette Oropesa's highly anticipated role debut as Manon at the Met, for which she received considerable critical acclaim.

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