The Monte-Carlo Ballet is one of the Principality’s most prestigious artistic events. Dating back to 1909, Monaco’s love of dance was instilled by the genius impresario Sergei Diaghilev.
After presenting his Ballets Russes for the first time in Paris, Serge de Diaghilev brought them to Monte Carlo, which became their creative workshop for two decades. When he died in 1929, the company was dissolved. However, in 1985, the Compagnie des Ballets de Monte-Carlo was created thanks to the Princess of Hanover, who wished to be part of this dance tradition in Monaco. Thus, the new company is directed by Ghislaine Thesmar and Pierre Lacotte, then by Jean-Yves Esquerre.
In 1993, Princess Caroline appointed Jean-Christophe Maillot as head of the Ballets de Monte-Carlo. With the experience he acquired as a dancer with Rosella Hightower and John Neumeier, he has created more than 30 ballets, many of which have entered the repertoire of major international companies. Today, the Ballets de Monte-Carlo is in demand throughout the world thanks to the emblematic works of Jean-Christophe Maillot such as Vers un pays sage (1995), Roméo et Juliette (1996), Cendrillon (1999) La Belle (2001), Le Songe (2005), Altro Canto (2006), Faust (2007) and LAC (2011).
In 2000, Jean-Christophe Maillot created the Monaco Dance Forum bringing together many different styles of dance. What’s on the agenda? Shows, exhibitions, workshops and conferences. The company regularly participates in this festival as well as the Princess Grace Academy. Today, Les Ballets de Monte Carlo is a concentration of the excellence of an international company, the benefits of a multi-format festival and the potential of a prestigious school.
