Our Circle of Friends in Paris

Wednesday, 23 April: Opéra Bastille
Reunited over ballet magic

The festivities began with a delicious dinner at the brasserie Café Français, renowned for its refined cuisine, modern Art Deco decor, and beautiful tree-lined terrace overlooking the Place de la Bastille. Gathered around the table were members from Switzerland, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, thanks to the presence of members from the American Friends of the Prix de Lausanne. It was a special occasion to reminisce about past editions of the competition and to celebrate the bonds forged through a shared passion for dance.

After dinner, the group made its way to the Opéra Bastille for a beautiful performance of “The Sleeping Beauty”, featuring Dorothée Gilbert and Guillaume Diop in the roles of Aurora and Prince Désiré. The presence of several former Prix de Lausanne Prize Winners among the soloists made the evening even more moving for our group.

Thursday, 24 April: Palais Garnier
A rare opportunity to step into the heart of the Palais

The following morning, the doors of the Opéra Garnier opened to our Circle, thanks to the generosity of José Martinez, Director of Dance and former Prix de Lausanne Prize Winner. This exceptional opportunity allowed our Friends to attend the company’s daily class, led by the esteemed teacher Andrey Klemm.

Divided into two groups, members of the Circle were able to observe the dancers up close in the iconic Marius Petipa Studio, beneath the dome. Étoiles, soloists, and coryphées took their place at the barre and among them, three former Prix Prize Winners: Sae Eun Park, Hannah O’Neill, and Luciana Sagioro, the face of our 2025 Latin American Preselection campaign in Brazil. At the end of the class, Maître Klemm warmly greeted the group and joined them for a few memorable photos. The experience continued in the legendary Foyer de la Danse, before our members slipped backstage for a rare behind-the-scenes look at this storied venue. Emotion was running high.

The same evening, the Circle had the privilege of taking its place in the central box for the Paris Opera Ballet School’s performance at the Palais Garnier. Among a rich program, Maurice Béjart’s “Seven Greek Dances” stood out as a particular highlight. It was a proud moment to see João Pedro dos Santos Silva, 2024 Prix Prize Winner, along with Lucía Abril Marcucci and Manon Bérenger, who were also candidates during previous edition, shining in the principal roles. Watching these young artists light up such a legendary stage deeply moved everyone.

Friday, 25 April: Paris Opera Ballet School, Nanterre
Shaping the dance of tomorrow

The journey concluded with a visit to the Paris Opera Ballet School in Nanterre, where members of the Circle were warmly welcomed by Élisabeth Platel, the school’s director and former Étoile of the Paris Opera Ballet. Led personally by Élisabeth Platel, the group had the privilege of discovering the inner workings of this prestigious institution, engaging in thoughtful dialogue, and posing questions about the training of the school’s renowned “petits rats”.

With emotion and conviction, the director spoke of the vital role the Prix de Lausanne plays in bringing exceptional talent into the school and in passing on artistic excellence to the company itself. This intimate and insightful exchange left a lasting impression on all.

An unforgettable journey!

More than just a cultural visit, this Parisian journey was a true celebration of dance, connection between generations, and the global influence of the Prix de Lausanne. The Circle of Friends returns home with their heart full of powerful images, music, and inspiring encounters—carrying with them a renewed sense of purpose in supporting the young artists who will illuminate the world stage in the years to come