Queensland Ballet’s talent rising to the occasion

One of Kenneth MacMillan’s most iconic works is set to come to QPAC when Queensland Ballet presents Manon from 28 September – 8 October 2022.

One of only a handful of ballet companies across the world with permission to perform Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon, this ballet is on every dancer’s bucket list – including First Company Artist Chiara Gonzalez who is learning the principal role of Manon.

Manon is up there with Giselle as many a dancer’s dream gig. It’s an extremely challenging and dramatic role requiring more than just maturity and experience to learn but Queensland Ballet’s Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO believes Gonzalez is ready.

“Chiara is truly a wonderful dancer, who brings something extra to every role she performs. She has demonstrated that she is ready to learn the role of Manon and the responsibility that it involves,” Mr Li said.  

A career coup for 25-year-old Gonzalez, the role of Manon has been performed by some of the world’s best ballerinas – Sylvie Guillem, Tamara Rojo, Natalie Osipova, and Alina Cojocaru. A defining moment in their careers, Gonzalez is hoping for the same.

“It’s quite surreal and unexpected that I’m living out my dream of learning the role of Manon so early on in my career. This ballet is so iconic, and I’ve always been so drawn to it due to the beautiful music, choreography, and dramatic storyline,” Ms Gonzalez said.

“The rehearsal process has been very detailed in grasping the correct characterisation of the role. This is one of my favourite aspects of performing, the ability to tell a story through your body language.

“I’m truly honoured to have been given the opportunity to learn the role of Manon, and I hope I can rise to the occasion like the great ballerinas before me,” she said.

Also performing the role of Manon is Romanian dancer Alina Cojocaru, who is considered one of the world’s best dancers.

“In my opinion, she has delivered one of the best portrayals of Manon, and I am looking forward to welcoming her when she arrives later this month for rehearsals,” Mr Li said.

“It is truly special to have Alina guest starring in Manon, not only for our Australian audiences but also to inspire and develop our dancers, like Chiara, as they closely rehearse and perform with her,” he said.

Queensland Ballet presents Manon at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, from 28 September - 8 October 2022. Tickets start at $60. For more information click here.