Manon Lescaut

Details

Act One
Manon Lescaut, a beautiful young girl from the provinces, is being taken to a convent by her brother Lescaut. Des Grieux, a student, falls in love with her at first sight. Geronte, a rich old man, is also attracted by Manon and plans to abduct her. Des Grieux is warned of Geronte’s plot by his friend Edmondo. Des +Grieux confesses to Manon that he is in love with her and the young couple run off together. Lescaut assures Geronte that Manon will soon tire of a life of poverty with Des Grieux: it will not be long before she turns to Geronte and his wealth.

Act Two
Lescaut’s plan has been successful: Manon has left Des Grieux in favour of a life of luxury with Geronte. She admits to her brother that in spite of her newfound wealth, she misses Des Grieux. Geronte shows off Manon to some of his friends. Left alone, Manon is startled when Des Grieux suddenly appears. He reproaches her

bitterly for having deserted him. She begs his forgiveness and he falls under her spell again. The two lovers are reunited passionately when Geronte suddenly returns. Manon laughs at him and he leaves, threatening revenge. Des Grieux urges Manon to escape immediately, but she is reluctant to abandon the luxuries of her new life. Lescaut suddenly appears and informs them that Geronte intends to have Manon imprisoned. Manon frantically attempts to gather up jewelry, money and clothes, but she takes too long: Geronte returns and has her arrested.

Act Three
Des Grieux and Lescaut are planning to rescue Manon, but their plan fails. Manon’s humiliation and disgrace are made public: she is to be deported. Des Grieux remains obsessed by her and begs to be allowed to go with her.

Act Four
Manon is dying in the desert. She begs Des Grieux to try and find some water. Left alone, she reviews her life, acknowledging the mistakes she has made. When Des Grieux returns, she finally tells him that she loves him before dying in his arms.


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program

Manon Lescaut
Musik: Giacomo Puccini

Place

Vienna State Opera – World-Renowned Stage for Opera and Ballet in the Heart of Vienna

The Vienna State Opera is one of the world's leading opera houses and a cultural landmark of Austria. Located prominently in the heart of Vienna, along the famous Ringstrasse, it offers outstanding opera productions featuring international stars and a renowned ballet ensemble.

Since its grand opening in 1869, the Vienna State Opera has been synonymous with musical excellence, artistic perfection, and an extensive repertoire ranging from operatic classics to contemporary works. Each season, it stages more than 300 performances, including world-famous operas such as Mozart’s "The Magic Flute", Verdi’s "La Traviata", and Puccini’s "Tosca".

Alongside its acclaimed opera productions, the Vienna State Opera is also home to the celebrated Vienna State Ballet, renowned for both classical and contemporary dance performances. The annual Vienna Opera Ball is a prestigious social event with international prominence.

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