Dark ballet too good for under-12s

MANON, Palace Theatre, Manchester

TOURING ballet shows tend not to come with a parental guidance notice attached. However, the English National Ballet’s production of “Manon” does.

With scenes depicting rape and murder, as well as an on-stage snog, the company recommends parents think twice before bringing under-12s to the performance. Which means they miss out on wonderful, modern choreography and a gripping storyline.

Kenneth MacMillan’s choreography is passionate, energetic and almost gymnastic, mixing traditional ballet positions with twisting leaps and full-body turns. Daria Klimentova is a great Manon, light but strong and able to perform many memorable moves such as an extraordinary mid-air swan dive. Fabian Reimeir is a good match as her true love Des Grieux, and uses his long limbs to make complicated steps look effortless.

A rich cinematic score by composer and arranger Leighton Lucas is the perfect sound for this accomplished production, and creates an intense and dramatic performance.