The Australian Ballet is set to welcome a celebrated international guest artist to the Sydney stage, with Paris Opera Ballet Étoile Hugo Marchand confirmed to dance three performances of Sir Kenneth MacMillan's evocative ballet, Manon, at the Sydney Opera House in May.
Marchand will perform the role of Des Grieux for evening performances on Thursday, May 1st, Saturday, May 3rd, and Wednesday, May 7th. He will be partnered by The Australian Ballet's own Principal Artist, Robyn Hendricks.
The news was shared by Marchand himself via his Instagram, where he expressed his excitement: "I am thrilled and honored to be dancing 3 performances of Manon with @rahendricks and the @ausballet on may 1st, 3rd and 7th at the Sydney Opera House. I am very much looking forward to discovering the dancers and meeting the australian audiences! Thank you @officialdavidhallberg for the invitation".
The Australian Ballet also announced the special guest appearance, stating, "We're excited to announce that Étoile Hugo Marchand from the Paris Opera Ballet will be joining us as Guest Artist during our Sydney season of Sir Kenneth MacMillan's Manon! We look forward to seeing Hugo Marchand on the Sydney Opera House stage performing as Des Grieux".
Hugo Marchand, born in 1993, is one of the most prominent dancers of his generation. He joined the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet in 2011 and was promoted to the highest rank, Étoile, at the young age of 23 in 2017. His rapid ascent and acclaimed performances in a diverse repertoire, including classical and contemporary works, have cemented his status as a leading figure in the ballet world. In 2017, he was awarded the prestigious Prix Benois de la Danse for his portrayal of Romeo in Nureyev's Romeo and Juliet.
His guest appearances in Manon are a significant highlight of The Australian Ballet's highly anticipated return season of MacMillan's masterpiece. Manon, which explores themes of love, desire, and the tragic consequences of temptation, is a cornerstone of the ballet repertoire, celebrated for its dramatic narrative and demanding choreography, particularly the poignant pas de deux between Manon and Des Grieux.
The Australian Ballet's 2025 Sydney season of Manon runs from April 30th to May 17th at the Sydney Opera House. Marchand's limited performances are expected to be a major drawcard for balletomanes eager to witness the acclaimed French étoile partner with one of The Australian Ballet's finest artists in this timeless and powerful ballet.