Costume design by Alix Stone for Diane Hunwin as Cupid in the Act III ballet scene of "Manon", English National Opera, London Coliseum, January 24th 1974.

Costume design for Diane Hunwin as Cupid in the Act III ballet scene of "Manon". The design depicts a full length female figure wearing a costume inspired by 18th century male theatrical costume. The costume consists of an orange jacket and wired "tonnelet" style skirt decorated with gold patterns and fringing, worn over tight fitting yellow sleeves and knee breeches. A gold and yellow decorated sash is worn over the left shoulder and around the waist; and a pair of small white cupid wings are attached to the back of the jacket. The figure also wears a white cravat, stockings, and a pair of ankle boots decorated with tassels. The figure holds a white handkerchief in her right hand.

This costume design by Alix Stone is part of an extensive collection of designs purchased by the Theatre Museum directly from the artist in 1994. The design was executed for a production of Massenet's opera "Manon" performed by the English National Opera at the London Coliseum, January 24th 1974. The opera was translated by Edmund Tracey, and the production was directed by John Copley. The scenery was designed by Henry Bardon; the lighting was designed by Robert Bryan; and the choreographer was Pauline Grant. The production was subsequently revived at the Coliseum in September 1974, and extensively toured various English provincial theatres during the springs of 1974 and 1975.

The production was later revised with some new costume designs by Alix Stone at the London Coliseum on April 12th 1979. This revised version was subsequently revived at the Coliseum in February 1980, February 1982, and October 1984.

Reason For Production: Commission

S.186-2001