The Principality will welcome one of the world’s most celebrated ballet companies this July, as the Ballet de l’Opéra national de Parisperforms La Dame aux Camélias at the Grimaldi Forum for three exclusive performances.
Scheduled for July 17, 18 and 19 at the Salle des Princes, the production forms part of a co-production between the Monaco Dance Forum and the Grimaldi Forum, continuing the festival’s tradition of bringing internationally renowned companies to the Principality that are rarely seen outside their home stages.
Created by legendary choreographer John Neumeier, the ballet is regarded as one of the defining works of modern narrative dance and has become a cornerstone of the Paris Opera Ballet repertoire since its debut there in 2006.
Inspired by La Dame aux camélias by Alexandre Dumas fils, Neumeier’s adaptation blends the tragic story of courtesan Marguerite Gautier with references to Manon Lescaut, creating a layered psychological portrait of doomed love, desire and social pressure.
The production is set to music by Frédéric Chopin, whose piano compositions drive the emotional intensity of the ballet. Organisers say the combination of sweeping choreography, richly detailed costumes and deeply romantic score has made the work one of the most acclaimed contemporary ballets performed worldwide.
Performances in Monaco will feature the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo conducted by Vello Pähn, with pianists Michal Bialk and Frédéric Vaysse-Knitter performing the solo piano parts live.
Sets and costumes were designed by Jürgen Rose, while lighting was created by John Neumeier in collaboration with Ralph Merkel.
Each performance is expected to run approximately two hours and fifty minutes, including two intervals.
Ticket prices begin at €55, with reduced fares available for audience members under 25. Evening parking rates will also be available at the Grimaldi Forum during the performances.
Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading classical ballet institutions, the Paris Opera Ballet traces its origins back more than 350 years and remains internationally synonymous with technical precision and artistic excellence. Its arrival in Monaco is expected to be one of the highlights of the Principality’s 2026 cultural calendar.