LA NOTTE MAGAZINE

December 2025 was marred for the entire ballet world by the passing of Hans van Manen (1932 – 2025), a distinguished dancer, choreographer, and legend of the Netherlands Ballet, who had been the resident choreographer of the Dutch National Ballet since 2005. We talked with Constantine Allen, a Principal dancer with the Dutch National Ballet, about his work with Hans van Manen and his own professional views.

Concertante rehearsal
Dutch National Ballet © Altin Kaftira

Constantine, first of all, I would like to express my condolences on the passing of Hans van Manen, a person who became one of the symbols of Dutch ballet.
You worked with him for many years, danced his ballets, and interacted with him a lot. What are the most important things you can highlight about Hans van Manen the professional and Hans van Manen the person?

Everyone here at Dutch National Ballet has been overwhelmed by the heartfelt reaction to our Hans’ passing.
For me the most consistent trait that I’ve taken away from my time in the studio and outside the theater with Hans has been his approach to truly being himself. It has been unapologetic while showing and encouraging the people around him to strive for the same thing.

Two pieces for HET
Dutch National Ballet © Hans Gerritsen

Hans studied from Sonia Gaskell and Françoise Adret, and worked with legends like Roland Petit, Anthony Dowell, Marcia Haydée, Natalia Makarova, Rudolf Nureyev, and many others. Did you feel the influence of the continuity of dance generations when working with Hans?

Partially of course, but Hans was an original. If I could detect any influence from the people you’ve mentioned I would say it could be how abstract and creative his pieces could be while having at times a very traditional format.

Variations for Two
Dutch National Ballet © Hans Gerritsen

Can you name your favorite works by Hans that you have had the chance to dance or watch as a spectator?

For me without a doubt my favorite piece of Hans is KammerBallet, I love the sense of community in the piece. You’re able to sit on stage and watch your colleagues go for it!

What did you personally learn from Hans?

Be passionate about everything you do.

Frank Bridge
Dutch National Ballet © Michel Schnater

Do you see yourself as a choreographer in the future?

At times I have but the idea has always intimidated me. It feels like writing a poem and publishing it for everyone to see. That scares me a bit. Maybe one day.

Concertante
Dutch National Ballet © Altin Kaftira

We thank Constantine and the Dutch National Ballet for this homage to Hans van Manen, his work and his personality.

Interview: Julia Sumzina
Photos: Duch National Ballet