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Month: July 2025

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo season looks inward with bold reimaginings and quiet milestones

by: Cassandra Tanti
29/07/2025

The 2025–2026 season of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo steers away from spectacle for spectacle’s sake, instead offering a measured mix of introspection, innovation and homage. With a series of world premieres, quiet commemorations, and works that blur the lines between tradition and disruption, this year’s programme invites audiences to watch a company reflecting on its legacy while shaping its next chapter.

Opening in October at the Salle Garnier, the season begins with a double bill that signals the tone for what follows: See You, a new creation by Paul Lightfoot, paired with William Forsythe’s Herman Schmerman, a piece whose fractured structure and ironic wit still feel unsettlingly current. If there’s a message here, it might be that dance can still ask questions rather than deliver answers.

By December, Jean-Christophe Maillot returns with Ma Bayadère, a full-length creation that revisits and rewires a 19th-century ballet best known for its exoticism and ghosts. Maillot’s version, premiering at the Grimaldi Forum with the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, suggests a more personal exploration of legacy — not just of the ballet itself, but of Maillot’s long tenure at the helm of the company.

legacy without nostalgia

The company turns 40 next year, but rather than staging a grand retrospective, the anniversary will be marked by a surprise Gala Evening in July 2026 — its contents withheld, perhaps deliberately. It’s a quiet nod to continuity over celebration, a choice that mirrors the company’s reluctance to dwell on the past even as it honours it.

That same ethos runs through Miniatures, a series of short premieres set for April. Choreographers including Francesco Nappa, Mimoza Koike and Aurélien Dumont contribute to a mosaic of pieces that suggest not a unified vision, but rather a cross-section of styles, voices, and possibilities.

the institution behind the art

The Académie Princesse Grace, a core pillar in Monaco’s dance ecosystem, marks its 50th anniversary this December with a programme that includes a gala in June. There’s ceremony, of course, but also something looser — the students will dance alongside live musicians, including Italian folk artist Antonio Castrignanò, giving the evening a more lived-in quality than a traditional showcase.

Meanwhile, Monaco Dance Forum remains the Principality’s most outward-looking platform. Highlights this season include Éric Oberdorff’s Waku Doki, and the Paris Opera Ballet’s La Dame aux Camélias, which closes the season in July under the direction of John Neumeier — one of ballet’s great storytellers of emotional restraint.

dancing elsewhere, watching at home

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo will also tour widely — Venice, Madrid, Seoul, Riga — with Cendrillon, Roméo et Juliette, LAC, and Ma Bayadère making their way to international stages. Back in Monaco, audiences will be offered glimpses behind the curtain through public workshops, late-night performances at the Atelier, and a film screening (La Danseuse) that will no doubt resonate with those thinking about the sacrifices behind the scenes.

This season isn’t an explosion of colour or an anniversary soaked in nostalgia. Instead, it’s the kind of programming that favours a deeper connection: between artist and audience, between what ballet was and what it might still become.

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Photo source: Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo

Monte Carlo Rally to return to F1 street circuit for first time since 2008

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
29/07/2025

The Automobile Club of Monaco has revealed an exciting new itinerary for the 94th Monte Carlo Rally, featuring the first return to Monaco’s street circuit since 2008. 

Running from 22nd to 25th January 2026, the 94th edition will be based in Gap for the third consecutive year.

The headline attraction comes on Saturday 24th January, when rally cars will return to Monaco’s famous Formula 1 street circuit for the first time since 2008. The 2.82-kilometre super-special stage, scheduled for 17:45, will use the lower section of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit. The last time rally cars tackled this iconic circuit was in 2008, when Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena claimed victory in their Citroën C4.

Four-Day challenge

The rally begins in traditional fashion with an official start from Monaco’s Quai Albert 1er on Thursday 22nd January at 14:00, following Wednesday’s 4.80-kilometre shakedown session in Gap at 14:01. The shakedown, introduced in 2017 and extended this year, now uses the Routes de la Garde and de Rabou in Gap.

Thursday’s opening leg features three demanding stages counting 61.58 competitive kilometres across the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments. The day begins with Toudon/Saint-Antonin covering 22.90 kilometres at 15:35, followed by the 23.48-kilometre Esclangon/Seyne-les-Alpes test at 18:03, before concluding with the 15.20-kilometre Vaumeilh/Claret stage at 19:51.

Friday represents the rally’s longest day with 129.38 times kilometres across the Drôme and Hautes-Alpes. Crews will tackle a loop of three stages run twice, consisting of Laborel/Chauvac-Laux-Montaux at 17.84 kilometres, the challenging Saint-Nazaire-le-Désert/La Motte-Chalancon test covering 29 kilometres, and La Bâtie-des-Fonts/Aspremont spanning 17.85 kilometres. These legendary roads, known for their technical traps and unpredictable weather conditions, will provide a decisive test for world championship contenders.

Saturday’s shortened but intense programme spans 78.22 kilometres, highlighted by the new La Bréole/Bellaffaire stage via Col des Garcinets – the rally’s longest single test at 30.10 kilometres, run twice. The day concludes with the eagerly anticipated Monaco Circuit super-special.

Sunday’s finale includes 71.62 kilometres across two stages run twice. The concluding battles will take place on Col de Braus/La Cabanette covering 12.48 kilometres and La Bollène-Vésubie/Moulinet spanning 23.33 kilometres, with the latter serving as the Wolf Power Stage on its second running at 13:15.

The complete route encompasses 17 special stages covering 340 competitive kilometres, with the victory ceremony scheduled for Monaco’s Port Hercule from 17:00 on Sunday 25 January.

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Main photo by Automobile Club de Monaco.

Christophe Mirmand meets Monaco’s key institutions in series of protocol visits

by: Cassandra Tanti
29/07/2025

Newly appointed Minister of State Christophe Mirmand has begun a series of official visits to Monaco’s core institutions as part of his first days in office, meeting with political, municipal and judicial leaders to establish the collaborative tone of his mandate.

On Tuesday 22nd July, Christophe Mirmand was received at the National Council by its President, Thomas Brezzo, for a first official meeting that combined protocol with working dialogue. The two leaders held discussions on the constitutional framework that defines the balance of power between the Council and the Government.

In his opening remarks, Thomas Brezzo reaffirmed the Council’s firm attachment to Monaco’s constitutional monarchy and expressed his hope for a renewed dynamic. “The culture of dialogue, reciprocal trust, pragmatism and transparency are essential values,” he said, recalling the productive cooperation seen under the previous Minister of State, Didier Guillaume. “We must use these same ingredients to re-establish a true institutional partnership and revive an effective working relationship in the service of the general interest.”

National Council President Thomas Brezzo and Mininster of State Christophe Mirrmand. Photo credit: Manuel Vitali

According to the government, the two men agreed on the need for open and regular exchanges, with Brezzo underlining citizens’ priorities and recalling the commitments made by the Government in December 2024 that had paved the way for the unanimous adoption of the 2025 Budget. The atmosphere was described as “constructive and benevolent”, setting the stage for a cooperative relationship moving forward.

A working visit to the heart of the Mairie

Continuing his protocol agenda, the Minister of State visited the Mairie de Monaco on Monday morning, where he was welcomed by Mayor Georges Marsan, First Deputy Camille Svara, Deputy for the Communal Domain Marjorie Crovetto, and Secretary General Isabelle Costa. Accompanied by Interior Minister Lionel Beffre, Government Secretary General Marc Vassalo, and his Chief of Staff Elodie Kheng, Mirmand toured key municipal departments including the Salle des Mariages, the Civil Status and Nationality Office, and the Council Chamber.

The visit concluded with a meeting in the Mayor’s office where several local projects were presented. These included the upcoming openings of the Caroline Media Library and the new performance hall, the long-awaited reopening of the Jardin Exotique, renovations at the Condamine Market, cemetery works, and the return of the popular ice rink to Stade Nautique Rainier III.

Mayor Georges Marsan (left) with the new Minister of State Christophe Mirmand (right). Photo credit: Manuel Vitali, Government Communications Department

Institutional engagement with justice services

As part of his ongoing introduction to Monaco’s institutions, Christophe Mirmand also met with Samuel Vuelta-Simon, Secretary of State for Justice and Director of Judicial Services.

This encounter, held on the evening of 24th July, was an opportunity to discuss the key responsibilities of the judicial administration and reinforce the importance of coordination between the State and Monaco’s independent justice system.

Christophe Mirmand with Samuel Vuelta-Simon, Secretary of State for Justice and Director of Judicial Services. Photo credit: Stephane Dana

These early visits reflect a deliberate and methodical approach by Christophe Mirmand to establish working relationships with all pillars of the Principality’s institutional framework. His calendar of engagements is expected to continue in the coming weeks as he settles into his role at the head of Monaco’s Government.

See also: 

Condamine Market and Jardin Exotique drive municipal council’s 2025 vision for Monaco

Fontvieille Shopping Centre to undergo €10 million refurbishment as long-term plans remain under review

by: Cassandra Tanti
28/07/2025

After years of uncertainty and stalled redevelopment proposals, the Fontvieille Shopping Centre is finally set for a major upgrade. On Friday 25th July, the Monaco government announced a €10 million investment to modernise the ageing commercial hub, while the broader and more ambitious reconstruction project remains under reassessment.

The announcement marks a significant step forward for one of the Principality’s most frequented public spaces. Calls to revitalise the Fontvieille Shopping Centre have been mounting for years, with successive proposals to demolish and rebuild the complex either shelved or delayed.

The new Fontvielle Shopping Centre plan didn’t get the government backing it needed to go ahead

The most recent version, which had envisioned doubling retail space and introducing new housing, offices and entertainment facilities, has yet to materialise. While the government has not ruled out a full redevelopment in the future, this latest move signals a clear shift towards immediate, practical improvements.

The €10 million package — €8 million already allocated since 2019, and a further €2 million announced last week — will fund upgrades to essential infrastructure, including the replacement of travelators and walkways from 2026. Additional works aimed at improving lighting, comfort, aesthetics and accessibility are expected to begin shortly. The government is also increasing the centre’s operating budget to strengthen day-to-day maintenance, safety and cleanliness.

Trader support and continuity of operations

A key component of the plan is to ensure commercial continuity throughout the renovation period. A first meeting with shopkeepers was held on Thursday 24th July to present the project and gather feedback. The government says that these consultations will continue to support individual businesses and minimise disruption.

In parallel, efforts are being made to maintain footfall and economic activity during the transition.

Elected officials cautiously optimistic

The National Council, which has been vocal in criticising the previous lack of progress, responded positively to the announcement. Council President Thomas Brezzo described the revised approach as “a very encouraging sign” and acknowledged that it reflected priorities long championed by elected representatives. “This presentation, which allows us to glimpse a shopping centre worthy of the 21st century, shows the government’s willingness to advance a project that has been postponed for far too long,” he said.

Corinne Bertani, also speaking on behalf of the Assembly, highlighted the importance of listening to shopkeepers and welcomed the government’s commitment to involve them meaningfully in the process. “The traders’ voice is essential in shaping a viable future for Fontvieille,” she said.

A renewed direction, but questions remain

While this refurbishment represents real progress after years of inaction, questions remain over the fate of the original €300 million redevelopment project, once touted as a transformative urban development for the district. No formal announcement has been made regarding its future, and it remains unclear whether a full reconstruction has been paused indefinitely or simply deferred.

For now, the focus has shifted to delivering visible, tangible improvements that meet the needs of Monégasque residents and local businesses. As officials continue to consult and revise their long-term urban strategy, the Fontvieille Shopping Centre appears—at last—to be entering a new chapter.

See also: 

Government defends record after National Council highlights Fontvieille decay and project delays

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Photo credit: Monaco Life 

 

August-September showings at Open Air Cinema Monaco revealed

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
28/07/2025

Monaco’s iconic Open-Air cinema is maintaining a blockbuster programming for August and September, transforming the rooftop of ‘Chemin des Pêcheurs’ into a premier movie destination. 

August sessions begin at 9pm with films starting at 9:30pm, allowing audiences to settle in during the sunset. The month features an impressive line-up on new releases that will continue screening throughout the season.

Already made their debut with screenings throughout August and September

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (2h49) –  Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in Christopher McQuarrie’s spy thriller, promising the death-defying stunts and intricate plotting that have made the franchise a global phenomenon.

F1 (2h35) – Joseph Kosinski’s high octane racing drama featuring Brad Pitt as former F1 driver Sonny Hayes making his comeback after 30 years. The story follows Hayes as he partners with young talent Joshua Pearce while navigating the dangerous world of Formula 1 racing.

Jurassic World: Renaissance (2h13) – The latest instalment in the beloved franchise features Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey and Mahershala Ali in another dinosaur-filled adventure. Director Gareth Edwards brings his distinctive vision to this continuing saga.

Les 4 Fantastiques, premiers pas (2h10) – Matt Shakman’s retro-futuristic take on the superhero team stars Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby and Joseph Quinn. The film transports audiences to a 1960s-inspired universe where the Fantastic Four face Galactus and his enigmatic herald, the Silver Surfer.

Les Bad Guys 2 (1h44) – The animal criminals return in this animated sequel, struggling with their new lives as good guys only to be pulled back for ‘one last job’ by an all female crew.

Dracula (2h09) – Luc Besson’s French reimagining of the vampire legend starring Caleb Landry Jones and Christophe Waltz. The film explores Prince Vladimir’s transformation into Dracula following the brutal loss of his wife in the 15th century.

Screenings to come starting August

Freaky Friday 2: Encore dans la peau de ma mère (1h51) – Debuts August 6th. Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan return for more body-swapping comedy as Anna, now a mother herself, faces new family challenges when lighting strikes twice.

Karate Kid: Legends (1h34) – Debuts August 13th. Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio team up in this martial arts adventure about Li Fong, a young kung-fu prodigy forced to move from Beijing to New York following personal tragedy. When Li needs help for a karate competition, his teacher Mr. Han enlists Daniel LaRusso.

Y a-t-il un flic pour sauver le monde? (1h25) -Debuts August 13th. Liam Neeson starts as Lieutenant Frank Drebin Jr. in this reboot of The Naked Gun franchise. Following in his father’s footsteps, he takes charge of a special task force to save the world in this action-comedy.

Film Surprise – September 1st. The ultimate cinematic mystery! This special screening keeps audiences guessing until the very last moment, adding an element of excitement to the programming. A perfect way to kick-off September’s schedule.

As September arrives, screening times shift earlier to 8:30pm with films beginning at 9pm, taking advantage of the earlier sunset. All August releases continue with multiple screening throughout September.

Tickets are priced at €12 for general admission, with student discounts available at €10.

The venue is equipped with 500 seats which come with cushions for a more comfortable experience. The CinéBar also ensures that refreshments are always within reach, whether you’re seeking a glass of champagne to complement the romantic atmosphere or grabbing a quick bite before the film begins.

For the full schedule, click here.

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Photo courtesy Open Air Cinema Monaco

 

 

Olivia Cognet’s ‘Visions’ transforms Mareterra with monumental ceramic works

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
28/07/2025

Artist Olivia Cognet has unveiled her latest exhibition ‘Visions’ at Monaco’s Mareterra district, presenting monumental ceramic works designed specifically for Renzo Piano’s floating architecture. 

Following a four-month residency at Mareterra, Cognet decided to create these new works dedicated to Monaco’s newest district. Located at 8 Quai du Petit Portier, the exhibition opened with a vernissage on 25th July.

Cognet’s practice sits at the threshold of sculpture and poetic language, exploring ceramics as what she describes as “a living material— instinctive, raw, and sensitive.” The works include bas-reliefs, enameled lava pieces, sculptural lights, vertical totems, expansive tables, and hybrid forms.

Works from Olivia Cognet’s ‘Visions’ exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Dialogue with space and architecture

The artist has created what she calls “a dense, silent ensemble where each peace enters into dialogue with space, with gravity, with light, with emptiness.” Each work has been conceived specifically in resonance with Piano’s architecture suspended between sea and sky.

“Here, earth is memory: shaped through a gesture that is both primal and precise, where the strength of form never overshadows the delicacy of line,” Cognet explains.

Cognet’s approach draws from both architectural principles and artisanal knowledge, focusing on “the trace of the hand, the insistence of matter, the breath of form.”

Works from Olivia Cognet’s ‘Visions’ exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Exploring tension between earth and sky

The exhibition also explores what Cognet identifies as “the fertile tension between grounding and ascension.” Her ceramic works provide an earthen counterpoint to Mareterra’s high-tech floating urbanism.

“Vestiges and Visions becomes a sensory passage— a crossing where past, present, and future are bound in clay, in silence, in gesture,” according to the artist.

Rather than simply being displayed, the works are described as “opened” within Piano’s unprecedented landscape of floating urbanism, creating an ongoing dialogue between ancient ceramic traditions and contemporary architectural innovation.

The exhibition continues until 23rd November 2025 at Mareterra Monaco, 8 Quai du Petit Portier.

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