Best Ballet Companies in Europe

The Royal Ballet – London, United Kingdom

Overview: Founded in 1931, The Royal Ballet is one of the most respected companies worldwide. Located at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London, this company is known for its commitment to both classical and contemporary ballet.

Highlights: The Royal Ballet combines British traditions with groundbreaking new works, led by artistic director Kevin O’Hare. Notable Performances: The Nutcracker, Giselle, and Swan Lake are regular features of their season, drawing audiences from all over the world.

Paris Opera Ballet – Paris, France

• Overview: Established in 1669 by King Louis XIV, the Paris Opera Ballet is the oldest national ballet company. With its rich history and classical French style, it holds a special place in the world of ballet.
• Highlights: Currently directed by José Martinez, the company has a reputation for maintaining traditional French ballet while also commissioning new works by prominent contemporary choreographers.
• Notable Performances: Works like La Sylphide, Paquita, and Romeo and Juliet are frequently performed here, alongside modern pieces by contemporary choreographers.

Bolshoi Ballet – Moscow, Russia

• Overview: Though not part of the EU, the Bolshoi Ballet is one of the oldest and most famous ballet companies in Europe. Founded in 1776, it is celebrated for its grand productions and exceptionally talented dancers.
• Highlights: The Bolshoi style is known for its drama and athleticism, with a rich repertoire of classical Russian ballets and innovative contemporary works.
• Notable Performances: Signature performances like Spartacus, Don Quixote, and The Golden Age showcase the depth and versatility of this legendary company.

Mariinsky Ballet – Saint Petersburg, Russia

• Overview: Another historic company from Russia, the Mariinsky Ballet (also known as the Kirov Ballet) has produced some of the most famous dancers in history, such as Anna Pavlova and Mikhail Baryshnikov.
• Highlights: The Mariinsky Ballet is famed for its precise technique and extensive classical repertoire. Under the leadership of director Valery Gergiev, the company continues to tour internationally, sharing the elegance of Russian ballet with the world.
• Notable Performances: Highlights include Sleeping Beauty, La Bayadère, and Swan Lake

Teatro alla Scala Ballet – Milan, Italy

• Overview: Based in one of the most famous opera houses, La Scala in Milan, this ballet company is renowned for its Italian flair and a rich mix of classical and contemporary works.
• Highlights: With Frédéric Olivieri as its artistic director, the Teatro alla Scala Ballet consistently offers high-quality productions featuring both traditional ballets and innovative new pieces.
• Notable Performances: Romeo and Juliet, Giselle, and Onegin are among the company’s beloved repertoire pieces.

Dutch National Ballet – Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Overview: The Dutch National Ballet is celebrated for its contemporary approach and diversity in repertoire. Founded in 1961, the company is known for fostering a modern ballet culture in the Netherlands.
• Highlights: Led by Ted Brandsen, the company is committed to commissioning new works and collaborating with international choreographers.
• Notable Performances: Their version of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King is unique, and works like Mata Hari and Coppelia are also popular productions.

Vienna State Ballet – Vienna, Austria

• Overview: Known for its elegance and tradition, the Vienna State Ballet is one of the most prominent ballet companies in Central Europe. Its performances take place in both the Vienna State Opera and the Volksoper.
• Highlights: Directed by Martin Schläpfer, the company offers a balanced mix of classical ballets and innovative new works, with a focus on artistic exploration.
• Notable Performances: Works such as The Sleeping Beauty, The Merry Widow, and The Concert are part of their regular lineup, alongside contemporary pieces.

Stuttgart Ballet – Stuttgart, Germany

• Overview: The Stuttgart Ballet rose to international fame under the direction of John Cranko in the 1960s and remains one of the most respected companies today. Known for its dramatic storytelling, the company has a loyal following.
• Highlights: Currently directed by Tamas Detrich, the company specializes in full-length ballets with a focus on both the classics and original works.
• Notable Performances: Onegin, Romeo and Juliet, and Swan Lake are among the company's most acclaimed performances.

English National Ballet – London, United Kingdom

• Overview: Founded in 1950, the English National Ballet has built a reputation for delivering accessible performances of high quality. It performs in venues across the UK and offers outreach programs to promote ballet.
• Highlights: Artistic Director Tamara Rojo has pushed the company to embrace contemporary works and collaborate with top choreographers.
• Notable Performances: The English National Ballet is known for productions like Akram Khan’s Giselle, Nutcracker, and Le Corsaire.

Finnish National Ballet – Helsinki, Finland

• Overview: The Finnish National Ballet offers a diverse range of productions and is committed to introducing Finnish audiences to both classical and modern works.
• Highlights: The company, led by Madeleine Onne, is known for its vibrant productions and has a reputation for commissioning works by Finnish and international choreographers.
• Notable Performances: Swan Lake, Cinderella, and Scheherazade are part of their regular repertoire.