Born in Saratov, into a family of singers. While still a lst-year student at the Saratov Conservatory, she appeared with the Saratov Theatre of Opera and Ballet. At the age of 23, she sang Marfa in Khovanshchina.
She continued her vocal education at the Moscow Conservatory (Irina Arkhipova’s class). In 2000, she completed her studies at the Conservatory and in 2002 — her post-graduate work there.
In 1999, Elena Manistina joined Moscow’s Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Theatre.
Since 2000, Elena Manistina has also been appearing at the Bolshoi Theatre.