From 17 to 25 October 2026, the Ballet of the Opéra Nice Côte d'Azur will host a two-part evening featuring the world premiere of Funkier than a mosquito by choreographer Ioannis Mandafounis and the addition of Opus 40 to its repertoire. The performances will be set to the music of Nina Simone and Meredith Monk, blending classical and contemporary styles. The event aims to highlight both innovation and the legacy of regional dance, with pieces that explore contrasting yet complementary themes. Pontus Lidberg, director of the Ballet of the Opéra Nice Côte d'Azur, wanted to address a gap in the theater’s programming by presenting Opus 40 for the first time. Jean-Christophe Maillot, a prominent figure in the region and artistic director of the Ballets de Monte-Carlo since 1993, had never had his work performed at the Opéra de Nice. In contrast, Lidberg commissioned a world premiere from Mandafounis, giving him creative freedom with only one initial request: to explore the use of pointe work in contemporary dance. Mandafounis described the two pieces as very different but complementary, saying each enhances the other when performed together. Funkier than a mosquito is a new creation by Mandafounis, who currently directs the Dresden Frankfurt Dance Company, known for its focus on choreographic improvisation. The piece is based on songs by Nina Simone and incorporates both structured choreography and improvisation. Dancers first learned improvisation techniques to create their own movements, which Mandafounis then used to compose the piece. The work plays with contrasts between classical ballet and contemporary dance, blending classical variations with modern interpretations. A new solo on pointe, highly technical and rooted in contemporary dance, was created specifically for this performance. Mandafounis described it as a lively, party-like experience, with moments of intimacy and powerful group sequences. Opus 40 by Jean-Christophe Maillot, created in 2000 by the Ballets de Monte-Carlo, is a tribute to youth and the emotions of childhood and early love. The piece has no narrative but uses touch, bird song, and the image of a first kiss to evoke sensations. Dancers form and dissolve duets and small groups in a light, playful atmosphere, which gradually evolves into more mature interactions. The piece is performed in colorful costumes and set to the experimental vocal compositions of Meredith Monk. It is being restaged by Bernice Coppieters and George Oliveira for the Opéra Nice Côte d'Azur performances.