The Paris Opera Ballet dance company

Created in 1669 on the initiative of Jean-Baptiste Colbert during the reign of Louis XIV, the Paris Opera Ballet has, over the centuries, become a veritable institution in the world of classical dance. Aspiring dancers from the world over come to try their chances, dreaming of joining the corps of this legendary Paris ballet.

After changing venues 11 times, the National Ballet at the Opéra de Paris moved into the Opéra Garnier in 1875, and has been at the prestigious address ever since.

From opera to the emancipation of dance

Originally, the dance troupe – which was comprised exclusively of men until 1681 – performed interludes and divertimentos during operas. It was not until the beginning of the 19th century that the Paris Opera Ballet broke free and began to put on shows in which dance played a preponderant role. It was the golden age of romantic ballet, producing works like La Sylphide with music by Jean Schneitzhoeffer and a book by Adolphe Nourrit.

The Paris Ballet kept pace with the evolution of classical dance, though not always smoothly, to continue to be a first-rate institution today.

Hierarchy at the Paris Opera Ballet

The utmost discipline is required to reach such a high level of excellence. Dancers begin at the corps de ballet level as quadrilles, before becoming coryphées and sujets. The most deserving and most talented can aspire to the rank of premier danseur or danseur étoile. One of the most famous étoiles at the Paris Opera Ballet was Marie-Claude Pietragalla, who was both a ballerina and a choreographer.

Anyone aiming to join this select company has to begin preparing as early as possible. The Paris Opera Ballet school prepares students for the competition to join the quadrille ranks and is one of the best-regarded ballet schools in the world. The Paris Opera Ballet, a source of inspiration Many artists have drawn inspiration from these ballerinas and ballet dancers with their flowing, ethereal movements and unimpeachable technique. The ballerinas of the Paris Opera especially inspired the painter Edgar Degas, who honored them in many canvases and pastel works.

The Paris Ballet, a source of inspiration

Many artists have drawn inspiration from these ballerinas and ballet dancers with their flowing, ethereal movements and unimpeachable technique. The ballerinas of the Paris Opera especially inspired the painter Edgar Degas, who honored them in many canvases and pastel works.