In October 2025, San Francisco (actually Berkeley) will host a rare event: the arrival of the Ballet de l’Opéra national de Paris to present Red Carpet, the latest creation by Hofesh Shechter. Premiered in June at the Palais Garnier and already praised by critics as a “dizzying and groovy” work, this piece marks a major milestone in the British choreographer’s career, as it is the first time he has created a full-length ballet specially conceived for another company besides his own.
Thirteen dancers from the Paris Opera evolve in a universe both festive and unsettling, wrapped in red curtains and sparkling lights. Shechter’s distinctive movement language is on full display: an organic, visceral dance, driven by a score he composed himself, performed live by musicians in tuxedos. The audience is drawn into an atmosphere that is part cabaret, part decadent party, where glamour collides with raw physical intensity.
The costumes, designed by the house of CHANEL, enhance the spectacular aspect of the evening by combining couture elegance with raw energy. The result is a ballet-event, both a tribute to the ghosts of the Palais Garnier and a contemporary plunge into an offbeat cabaret-theater.
After Berkeley, where the company will perform from October 2 to 4, the tour will continue in New York.
For the California stage, this is a rare opportunity to experience the Paris Opera Ballet outside its home, carried by the boldness of one of today’s most influential choreographers.
Dates: October 2 to 4, 2025
Thursday, October 2 – 7:30pm
Friday, October 3 – 8:00pm
Saturday, October 4 – 2:00pmVenue: Zellerbach Hall, 101 Zellerbach Hall, #4800, Berkeley
Tickets here
