Super soprano Anna Netrebko will sing the title role in Jules Massenet’s “Manon” when The MET: Live in HD brings Laurent Pelly’s new production to the stage on Saturday, April 7.
With the intensity and dramatic freedom she brings to her roles, the Russian diva will portray the tragic heroine Manon, whose need for wealth and pleasure proves to be her downfall.  Her lover, des Grieux, is played by Piotr Beczala, her brother, Lescaunt, by Paulo Szot, and the Comte des Grieux by David Pittsinger.

[caption id="attachment_6296" align="alignleft" width="199" caption="Anna Netrebko as the title role of Massenetâ."]<a href="http://www.yourislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/manon-jpeg.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-6296" title="MANON ; ROH,19th June 2010" src="http://www.yourislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/manon-jpeg-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="300" /></a>[/caption]

Netrebko’s on-stage magnetism and Manon’s sensuous melodies bring to life the drama and conflict of a young woman who, though bound for life in a convent, falls in love with a dashing young nobleman.  But as much as she loves des Grieux, she has learned to love the life of luxury provided by numerous admirers more.  Predictably, she comes to a bad end while regretting their lost happiness. Arguably Massenet’s best work, “Manon” is in five acts and takes place in 18th century France during the reign of Louis XV.
With the recent technology upgrades to USCB Center for the Arts, the larger screen and improved sound will provide an even greater sense of “you are there” to the live performances from the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House. For additional information on the operas go to www.metopera.org/hdlive.
By popular request, all seating is assigned. Adult/Senior $20; Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Members $16.
For additional information, contact USCB Center for the Arts director, Bonnie Hargrove, at 843-521-4145 or hargrov@uscb./edu.
The Met: Live in HD series is made possible by a generous grant from its founding sponsor, The Neubauer Family Foundation; Global corporate sponsorship is provided by Bloomberg; The HD broadcasts are supported by Toll Brothers.