Grand Palais: five free dance classes with star choreographers this summer in the nave

This summer 2026, the Grand Palais opens its doors to all dance lovers. From June 13 to July 18, five Saturday mornings will be devoted to free classes in the majestic nave. Renowned choreographers and dancers will guide these workshops, accessible to all levels.

Free dance lessons in the nave of Paris

The promise seems almost too good to be true. And yet it’s very real: learn to dance without paying a cent, in one of Paris’s most emblematic monuments. The Grand Palais is hosting a series of five dance workshops, entirely free of charge.

These 2-hour sessions take place every Saturday morning, from June 13 to July 18, 2026. Access is free, but reservations are required. The opening date of the ticket office has not yet been announced.

This program is part of the site’s summer cycle. Participants can take advantage of an exceptional setting to learn or improve their skills.

“A cycle of workshops inspired by the Sources collective workshop-performance initiated by Boris Charmatz during the first edition of Grand Palais d’été.

The legacy of Boris Charmatz

These workshops have their origins in an initiative by Boris Charmatz. The choreographer launched the collective workshop-performance “Sources” at the first edition of the Grand Palais d’été. This year, the concept is extended with an even richer program.

The spirit remains the same: to make dance accessible to as many people as possible. As a result, no previous experience is required to take part. Beginners and experienced amateurs alike can join the sessions.

A program featuring dance stars

The teachers announced are among the most respected figures in their disciplines. Here’s the schedule for this summer at the Grand Palais:

• June 13: Némo Flouret, a fan of collective creations
• June 20: Josépha Madoki, queen of waacking
• June 27: Members of Ballet du Rhin
• July 4: Nassim Baddag and Lililan Damango, breakdance dancers
• July 18: Members of Ballet de Lorraine

Each session offers a different approach. From waacking to breakdance and contemporary dance, the styles vary from week to week. This diversity enables us to reach a wide and curious audience.

Josépha Madoki, nicknamed the Queen of Waacking, hosts the June 20 session. This dance style, which originated in the disco clubs of the 1970s, is becoming increasingly popular. Its energy and fluidity make it an accessible and festive discipline.

On July 4, it’s time for breakdance with Nassim Baddag and Lililan Damango. Now an Olympic discipline, breakdance attracts a young and dynamic audience. The two dancers will share their techniques and passion under the glass roof.

Classical ballets in the spotlight

The Ballets du Rhin and de Lorraine complete this eclectic program. On June 27, members of the Ballet du Rhin present their workshop. Then, on July 18, it’s Ballet de Lorraine’s turn to close the cycle.

Both companies enjoy a solid reputation in the world of contemporary dance. Their presence at the Grand Palais offers a rare opportunity to enter their world. Participants benefit from top-level instruction.

Practical information

Workshops are held at the Grand Palais, 3 avenue du Général Eisenhower, in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. Admission is free, but advance booking is essential to secure your place.

The opening date of the box office has not yet been specified. We therefore advise you to keep an eye on the venue’s official announcements. Tickets are likely to go fast, given the appeal of this program.

Each workshop lasts 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to learn the basics and practice. No particular level is required: anyone can try it. All you need is a comfortable outfit and a desire to get moving.

These Saturday morning events are a great way to start the weekend. The natural light of the nave, combined with the energy of the dancers, creates a unique atmosphere. All in all, a not-to-be-missed experience in Paris this summer.

• Grand Palais