A Night of Elegance and Artistry at the Paris National Ballet Opening Gala

Days ahead of Paris Fashion Week, the City of Lights shone even brighter on Thursday night as the Palais Garnier played host to the grand Opening Gala of the Paris National Ballet. Balletomanes and culture-makers alike gathered in high anticipation for an evening of ballet—and fashion.

The night commenced with the traditional Défilé de ballet, a mesmerizing procession that united Étoiles, Premiers Danseurs, Corps de Ballet, and students from the Paris Opera Dance School, all under the guidance of the illustrious Elisabeth Platel. Swan-white tutus and tiaras for the traditional opening ballet were created by Chanel for the Women Étoiles. It was one of two of the night’s performances for which Chanel provided the costumes and served as the most recent collaboration between the fashion house and ballet, a relationship that began back in 1924 when Gabrielle Chanel designed the beachy costumes for the Bronislava Nijinska-choreographed “Le Train Bleu” ballet for Serge Diaghilev s Ballets Russes.

Following the lovely opening, three contemporary choreographic creations followed. "Horizon" by Xie Xin transported us to a world of dreams and innovation. "Singularité plurielles" by Nicolas Paul mesmerized with its unique perspective on dance—plus more Chanel costumes, one of which was a very double C tweedy pantsuit. And, "The Last Call" by Marion Motin, with costumes designed by the iconic Avellano, left the audience in awe with its fusion of movement and artistry.

As the performance concluded, nearly 750 guests were treated to an elegant gala dinner, masterfully curated by renowned chefs Grégory Marchand, Takao Inazawa, Nadia Sammut, Bertrand Grébaut, and Fany Payre, and orchestrated by the talented Marine Bidaud.

This grand event, organized by the Association pour le Rayonnement de l Opéra de Paris (AROP), served as a crucial fundraiser for the Paris Opera s activities. It was made possible through the exceptional support of Rolex, the Timepiece of the Paris Opera, and Chanel, the Major Patron of the Paris Opera, alongside the generosity of individuals and corporate donors who form the Honorary Committee.

Among the galagoers were Alexander Neef, Director of the Paris Opera; José Martinez, Dance Director of the Paris Opera; and Stéphanie Childress, the conductor. The Étoile dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet, including Dorothée Gilbert, Ludmila Pagliero, and Hugo Marchand, graced the occasion with their presence.

In addition, a constellation of stars from various fields added to the evening s glamour. Notable attendees included Charlotte Casiraghi, Géraldine Nakache, Rossy de Palma, and Mati Diop, to name just a few.

The Honorary Committee, comprising esteemed partners and benefactors, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this gala. Rolex, as the Timepiece of the Paris Opera, and Chanel, as the Major Patron of the Paris Opera Ballet, have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the world of dance and art.