Dance Theatre of Harlem: New York ballet returns to Paris

After an absence of four decades, Dance Theatre of Harlem is set to return to the French stage for an exceptional national tour. Founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, the New York company is scheduled to perform at the Palais des Congrès in Paris from February 26 to 28, 2026. Two alternating programs will feature classical, neoclassical and contemporary pieces, culminating in a revival of the famous Firebird ballet.

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The tour would pay tribute to the unique history of Dance Theatre of Harlem, a pioneering company born at the heart of the U.S. civil rights movement. The aim is to make ballet accessible to all, especially young African-Americans from the Harlem district. For this new arrival in France, the 28 dancers perform a selection of pieces from the classical and neoclassical repertoire, notably by George Balanchine, but also contemporary creations by Artistic Director Robert Garland. Among the emblematic works, Firebird will be presented exclusively in Paris, a piece created in 1982 that has become one of the company's emblems.

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This proposal would appeal as much to classical ballet aficionados as to spectators in search of contemporary choreographic forms with meaning and history. With its eclectic choice of music (from Johann Sebastian Bach to Radiohead, Stevie Wonder and James Blake), the company could appeal to a wide audience, curious to discover a resolutely modern vision of ballet. Conversely, fans of linear narrative narratives or strictly traditional repertoires may be less interested in the company's plural approach.

Two distinct programs, A and B, would be presented in alternation, each reflecting the cultural and stylistic diversity claimed by Arthur Mitchell from the company's founding. The French tour also includes stops in Lyon, Bordeaux and Roubaix between February 11 and March 7, 2026. The Paris show will feature an exclusive performance of Firebird, a pivotal work in the Dance Theatre of Harlem repertoire.

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With this 2026 tour, Dance Theatre of Harlem marks its return to French stages in a celebration of métissage, artistic freedom and African-American heritage in the world of ballet. A rare event for dance aficionados, combining high choreographic standards and artistic commitment.

This article is based on the information provided in the press kit. The show has not been viewed by the editorial team.

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