San Francisco Ballet (SF Ballet) will launch its 24/25 season with the highly anticipated SF premiere of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon. This masterful ballet, running from January 24 to February 1, 2025, at the War Memorial Opera House, offers an enchanting exploration of 18th-century France, brought to life through vivid storytelling, opulent design, and a breathtaking score by French composer Jules Massenet.
Inspired by the 1731 French novel, Manon Lescaut, the ballet follows the captivating rise and fall of its heroine in a morally complex world of passion and ambition. Audiences will be transported to the grandeur of France’s past through lavish costumes and sets borrowed from The Royal Ballet, rarely seen outside the UK. Adding to the experience, the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, led by Music Director Martin West, will perform Jules Massenet’s lush score live.
Beyond the stage, attendees can immerse themselves in 18th-century French elegance with interactive lobby displays, themed fashion experiences, and a specialty cocktail that complements Manon’s luxurious ambiance.
Principal casting highlights include Dores André, Jasmine Jimison, Sasha De Sola, and Nikisha Fogo as Manon, alongside Alban Lendorf, a Benois de la Danse award-winning guest artist, who will perform as des Grieux in select shows.
Don’t miss this dazzling homage to French culture and MacMillan’s timeless storytelling!
