Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montreal

50 years young... And still going strong. As illustrated throughout its history, Les Grand Ballets has remained loyal to the very essence of classical ballet since it was founded in 1957, and will continue exploring new territory for dance lovers both near and far.

60s FROM GISELLE TO TOMMY

Young founder Ludmilla Chiriaeff knew that the troupe had to start by winning the hearts of audiences who had had little exposure to classical dance. First came the learning stage. Enthusiasm quickly followed: Giselle, Les Noces, La fille mal gardée and, soon after, the now-famous The Nutcracker by Fernand Nault. With Carmina Burana and Tommy, also by Fernand Nault, Montreal audiences were introduced to innovation early on and kept asking for more.

70s 80s CELEBRATING THE PRESENT

Spurred on by this positive reception, Les Grands Ballets commissioned original works by young, up-and-coming choreographers. The troupe’s repertoire expanded throughout the 70s and 80s, with a wealth of Quebecois and Canadian creations, as well as with works by the great Balanchine.

90s FROM NEAR AND FAR

Les Grands Ballets has continuously called on the talents of Canadian choreographers, including Ginette Laurin, Paul-André Fortier, Édouard Lock and James Kudelka. In keeping with the international status its founder had achieved, the troupe has also been able to combine this contribution with that of extremely talented European choreographers such as Jirí Kylián, Mats Ek and Ohad Naharin, while showcasing the world’s most prominent dance companies.

DIFFERENTLY CLASSIC

Determined to focus on creativity–both in its approach to the great classics and through the new works it brings audiences–today, Les Grands Ballets takes pride in offering spectators the opportunity to be moved. Differently.