José Martinez‘s career has spanned the heights of performance and now leadership in the world of ballet. After a celebrated career as an étoile with the Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris, Martinez launched the Junior Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris in may 2024, providing a crucial stepping stone for emerging dancers. The new company is currently on its first tour, bringing a fresh perspective to venues across Switzerland and beyond.
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In February 1987, 18-year-old José Martinez was on top of the world. Fresh off winning the Prix de Lausanne, he dreamed of following in the footsteps of American Ballet Theatre star Fernando Bujones, dazzling audiences as Don Quixote. Little did he know, he would himself be named an étoile (principal dancer) in 1997 with the prestigious Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris – and, remarkably, become its director in October 2022.
Perhaps it was that feeling of limitless possibility that inspired Martinez to launch the Junior Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris this past May 2024. The company, comprised of 24 dancers between the ages of 17 and 23, is currently touring, bringing its talent to venues like the Théâtre du Crochetan in Monthey this Saturday and a sold-out performance at the Théâtre Equilibre in Fribourg on Tuesday.
