How Much Do Paris Opera Ballet Dancers Make?

By Anna Duncan

The Paris Opera Ballet is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious dance companies in the world. As a result, many aspiring dancers dream of joining the company and performing on its hallowed stages. However, becoming a member of the Paris Opera Ballet is no easy feat, and those lucky enough to achieve this goal often wonder how much they can expect to earn.

What Factors Affect Paris Opera Ballet Dancer Salaries?

Before we dive into specific salary figures, it’s important to understand that there are many factors that can affect how much a Paris Opera Ballet dancer earns. These include:

  • The dancer’s rank within the company
  • The number of years they have been with the company
  • The level of experience and training they bring to the role
  • The specific production or performance they are involved in

Paris Opera Ballet Dancer Salary Ranges

With those factors in mind, let’s take a look at some general salary ranges for Paris Opera Ballet dancers:

Corps de Ballet Members

As the bottom rung on the ladder, corps de ballet members are typically paid less than their more senior counterparts. According to Glassdoor.com, corps de ballet members at the Paris Opera Ballet can expect to earn between €1,500 and €2,000 per month (approximately $1,800-$2,400 USD).

Soloists

Soloists are generally more experienced dancers who have worked their way up through the ranks over several years. As such, their salaries tend to be higher than those of corps de ballet members.com, soloists at the Paris Opera Ballet make between €2,000 and €3,500 per month (approximately $2,400-$4,200 USD).

Principal Dancers

Principal dancers are the stars of the show, and as such, they are among the highest-paid members of the company. While exact figures are hard to come by, it is generally believed that principal dancers at the Paris Opera Ballet can earn upwards of €10,000 per month (approximately $12,000 USD).

Other Perks and Benefits

While salary is certainly an important factor for most professional dancers, it’s worth noting that Paris Opera Ballet members also enjoy a number of other perks and benefits. These can include:

  • Access to world-class training facilities and instructors
  • The opportunity to perform on some of the world’s most famous stages
  • Travel opportunities for international performances and tours
  • Access to healthcare and other benefits through their status as French civil servants (which all Paris Opera Ballet members are considered)

The Bottom Line

Becoming a dancer with the Paris Opera Ballet is a dream come true for many aspiring performers. While salaries vary depending on rank, experience, and other factors, all members of this prestigious company enjoy access to top-notch training facilities, incredible performance opportunities, and a host of other benefits.