Dancer Dorothée Gilbert retires soon

Dancer Dorothée Gilbert, a principal dancer at the Paris Opera Ballet, will retire from the stage on October 15, 2026, at the Palais Garnier. She will perform her final show alongside fellow principal dancer Hugo Marchand.

Career spanning nearly three decades

Gilbert was admitted to the Paris Opera Ballet School in 1995 and became a principal dancer in 2007. Over the years, she has performed nearly all the major roles in the ballet repertoire.

Born in Toulouse, now a Parisian icon

A native of Toulouse, Gilbert has become one of the most recognized figures in the Paris Opera Ballet. Her retirement marks the end of a long and celebrated career in one of the world’s most prestigious ballet companies.

Age and a final extension

At 43 years old, Gilbert’s retirement is partly due to age-related considerations. However, she was granted an additional year to perform, allowing her to finish her career on her own terms.