Opera on 3 - Manon

Massenet's Manon recorded last week at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Music Director Antonio Pappano conducts a cast headed by soprano Anna Netrebko and tenor Vittorio Grigolo. The performance is presented by Martin Handley who is joined by French music expert Claire Launchbury. When we first meet the young Manon she is on her way to a convent where she expects to spend the rest of her life. But she encounters a young nobleman, the Chevalier des Grieux, and her life is changed forever. The opera follows her as she tries to come to terms with the conflicts imposed by love, wealth, family and faith - a story that inspires Massenet to compose some of his most memorable and lyrical music. Manon Lescaut ..... Anna Netrebko (soprano) Chevalier des Grieux ..... Vittorio Grigolo (tenor) Lescaut ..... Russell Braun (tenor) Guillot de Morfontaine ..... Christophe Mortagne (tenor) De Bretigny ..... William Shimell (baritone) Pousette ..... Simona Mihai (sorpano) Javotte ..... Louise Innes (mezzo-soprano) Rosette ..... Kai Ruutel (mezzo-soprano) Inkeeper ..... Lynton Black (bass-baritone) Comte des Grieux ..... Christof Fischesser (bass) Sergeant ..... John Bernays (bass) Antonio Pappano ..... Conductor Royal Opera Chorus Orchestra of the Royal Opera House.