The sets and costumes by Ponnelle are truly reflective of the 'grand style'. Plus the fact that the two lead characters are portrayed by top singers in their absolute prime - both Gruberova and Araiza weren't even 35 years old at the time of this performance, makes this production the most convincing both dramatically and musically. The conducting of Fischer is good - he makes the music come alive, much more so than the MET version.
Edita Gruberova
as Manon
Francisco Araiza
as Des Grieux
Hans Helm
as Lescaut
Pierre Thau
as Comte des Grieux
Wilfried Gahmlich
as Guillot
Georg Tichy
as De Brétigny
Donna Robin
as Poussette
Margaretha Hintermeier
as Javotte
Axelle Gall
as Rosette
Alfred Šramek
as Posadero
