THE CAPITOLE NATIONAL OPERA BALLET

BEATE VOLLACK, Dance Director

For more than two centuries, The Capitole National Opera Ballet was devoted to the art of opera, performing dance interludes in operas staged at the Théâtre du Capitole. It wasn’t until 1949 that full-length dance evenings were introduced at the initiative of Louis Orlandi, ballet master and choreographer.

The company truly became a fully established ballet company under the leadership of Nanette Glushak (1994–2012) and then Kader Belarbi (2012–2023). During these years, the Toulouse-based ensemble built a rich repertoire that includes works by some of the most iconic choreographers: Marius Petipa, Serge Lifar, Maurice Béjart, Roland Petit, John Cranko, John Neumeier, Jiří Kylián, William Forsythe, Uwe Scholz, Rudolf Nureyev, Nacho Duato, Carolyn Carlson, Thierry Malandain, David Dawson…

The artistic ambition of The Capitole National Opera is to provide its Ballet with a wide-ranging classical and neoclassical repertoire, while embracing more contemporary aesthetics. The company is also committed to reaching new audiences, strengthening its regional presence, and expanding its international reach.

Beauty, boldness, and modernity sum up the identity of The Capitole National Opera Ballet. With 35 dancers from 14 different countries, it is an internationally minded company, recognized each season for its high artistic level by both audiences and professionals. Year after year, the Ballet reflects a living, forward-looking art form that remains open and accessible to all.

In June 2023, Beate Vollack was appointed Dance Director of The Capitole National Opera Ballet. While keen to preserve the company’s academic identity, she is committed to enriching its repertoire, nurturing both group excellence and individual expression, and inviting choreographers from diverse artistic backgrounds.