Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo: Dance Company & Performances

Overview

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo is one of the world's leading contemporary ballet companies, founded in 1985 by H.R.H. Princess Caroline of Hanover. Under the artistic direction of choreographer Jean-Christophe Maillot since 1993, the company has built an international reputation for innovative productions that blend classical technique with contemporary storytelling. With approximately 50 dancers from over 15 nationalities, the company performs both in Monaco and on major international tours.

The Company

History

The tradition of ballet in Monaco dates back to the early 20th century when Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes were based in Monte-Carlo from 1911 to 1929, creating some of the most revolutionary works in dance history. The modern company, Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, was established in 1985 to continue this legacy.

Artistic Direction

Jean-Christophe Maillot has been artistic director since 1993 and has created over 80 works for the company. His choreographic style is known for its theatricality, emotional depth, and reimagining of classical stories. Notable full-length works include reinterpretations of Romeo and Juliet, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, La Belle, and The Taming of the Shrew.

Dancers

The company comprises approximately 50 professional dancers recruited internationally through auditions. The diverse ensemble brings together artists trained in both classical and contemporary dance traditions.

Venues

Grimaldi Forum Monaco

The company's primary performance venue for large-scale productions. Located in the Larvotto district, the Grimaldi Forum's Salle des Princes seats approximately 1,800 and provides a modern stage with full technical capabilities.

• Address: 10 Avenue Princesse Grace, 98000 Monaco
• Access: Bus lines 4, 6; parking available

Salle Garnier (Opera de Monte-Carlo)

For more intimate productions, the company performs at the historic Salle Garnier within the Casino complex. This ornate 524-seat theatre, designed by Charles Garnier (architect of the Paris Opera), is one of Europe's most beautiful performance spaces.

Atelier de la Compagnie

The company's rehearsal studios occasionally host studio performances and open rehearsals, offering a more intimate experience with the dancers.

Attending a Performance

Tickets & Pricing

• Price range: EUR 15-90 depending on venue, seat location, and production
• Box office: Grimaldi Forum or Opera de Monte-Carlo
• Online: balletsdemontecarlo.com
• Season subscriptions: Available with discounts for multiple performances

Dress Code

There is no strict dress code, but Monaco audiences tend to dress smartly. For performances at the Salle Garnier, business casual or elegant attire is appropriate. For the Grimaldi Forum, smart casual is standard.

Practical Information

• Performances typically begin at 20:00 or 20:30
• Duration varies by production (usually 1.5-2.5 hours with intermission)
• Arrive 15-30 minutes early for seating
• Late arrivals may be seated only during suitable breaks
• Programmes available at the venue

Monaco Dance Forum

The company also organises the Monaco Dance Forum, a biennial event that brings together international dance companies, choreographers, and dance professionals for performances, workshops, and discussions. The forum reinforces Monaco's position as a centre for dance excellence.

Educational & Outreach Programmes

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo runs educational initiatives including:

• Princess Grace Academy: Monaco's professional dance school, closely linked to the company
• Youth workshops: Introductory dance classes and backstage visits for young audiences
• Open rehearsals: Occasional opportunities to watch the company in rehearsal