Hans van Manen: in memory

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Hans van Manen, former dancer and choreographer of Dutch National Ballet. One of the most influential choreographers of the last 70 years, Hans's work is performed all over the world, and has been part of BRB's repertory since the 1970s. We last performed his ballets Grosse Fuge in 2012 and 5 Tangos in 2017.

Born in the Netherlands in 1932, Hans began his career as a dancer before turning to choreography, where his distinctive choreographic voice quickly gained international recognition. Over the course of his career, he went on to create over 150 works for companies around the world, including Dutch National Ballet, Nederlands Dans Theater, The Royal Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet and Stuttgart Ballet.

Renowned for his musicality, clarity and emotional directness, his choreography is characterised by its clean lines, precision and deep humanity. His works often explored relationships, vulnerability and power with honesty, combining classical technique with a modern sensibility that reshaped the language of neo-classical ballet. Pieces such as Grosse Fuge and 5 Tangos remain cornerstones of the international repertory.

Hans van Manen maintained a long-standing relationship with BRB. From the 1970s to 2017, the Company performed works including Grosse Fuge and 5 Tangos.

His legacy continues through the generations of artists he influenced and the timeless relevance of his work. Hans's contribution to dance is immeasurable, and he will be remembered as a choreographer who transformed the art form with intelligence, courage and artistic integrity.