A Surprise Visit: Gregory Gaillard, Director of the Paris Opera Ballet

A Surprise Visit: Gregory Gaillard, Director of the Paris Opera Ballet

On Friday, October 3rd, we had the unique privilege of welcoming Gregory Gaillard, Director of the Paris Opera Ballet, for an impromptu assembly at EB.

Gregory was in Berkeley for a few days as he directed the dancers performing in the Red Carpet Paris Opera Ballet show at Zellerbach Hall. During his visit, he met with students from Grades 1 to 4 and shared his inspiring personal and professional journey—from classical dancer to contemporary artist and now director.



He spoke candidly about the ups and downs he experienced along the way, especially when, at just 11 years old, he left his family in Brittany (France) to attend a ballet boarding school in Paris. He recalled how difficult that separation was and how, after three months, he returned home and almost gave up dancing altogether. Yet, after some time away, he realized how much he missed dance—so much so that, despite facing challenges at school, he auditioned again a year later and returned to Paris, this time with renewed determination and purpose.



Gregory’s career took him around the world, but like many dancers, he also faced physical injuries that forced him to rethink his dream of becoming une Étoile (a principal dancer). Through resilience and openness to change, he reinvented himself as a contemporary dancer and later became the Director of the Paris Opera Ballet—turning what once felt like a setback into an extraordinary opportunity.

His story offered our students a powerful message about resilience, perseverance, and flexibility: even when we face obstacles or moments of doubt, if we stay connected to our passion and allow ourselves to adapt, we can find new and beautiful ways to fulfill our dreams.



We are deeply grateful to Gregory Gaillard for this inspiring visit and heartfelt lesson, and to parent Nadia Rafif, mother of Nelia (Grade 1), for making this wonderful encounter possible.