Ballets de Monte-Carlo marks 40 years with Grimaldi Forum gala
By Zak Jackson, MonacoViews Editorial
Jean-Christophe Maillot reflects on four decades leading the Ballets de Monte-Carlo ahead of an anniversary celebration honouring Princess Caroline at the Grimaldi Forum.
The Ballets de Monte-Carlo turns 40 this year, and artistic director Jean-Christophe Maillot is marking the milestone with a gala performance at the Grimaldi Forum that he describes as equal parts family celebration, public tribute and personal homage to Princess Caroline, who has shaped the company since its founding.
Maillot, who has led the company for the bulk of those four decades, says his greatest source of pride is having avoided any period of decline - a rare claim for a company of this scale and ambition. The anniversary production is being built around that continuity, with the programme intended to reflect the range and evolution of the repertoire rather than simply revisit old ground.
Princess Caroline remains central to the occasion. As the driving force behind the Ballets de Monte-Carlo, she is expected to attend the Grimaldi Forum performance, and Maillot has been candid about how much her involvement has defined the company's direction and standing within Monaco's cultural life.
Full scheduling details and ticket information for the 40th anniversary programme are expected through the Grimaldi Forum's official booking channels.