Choreographer Benjamin Millepied Creates Dance for French Open Finals

Benjamin Millepied, a well-known French choreographer, embarked on a unique task: crafting two short dance pieces for the championship matches at Roland Garros. With the intention of setting a new precedent, these dances were to precede the finals of the French Open tennis tournament, one for the women’s final on Saturday and another for the men’s final on Sunday.

During a rehearsal, Millepied reminded his dancers, “Remember you can’t touch it!” as they energetically lifted each other over an imagined net on a make-believe tennis court. He instructed them to start the routine again, accompanied by Rosalía’s song “Reliqua,” urging them to visualize and utilize a larger court for their performance.

The task at hand was unique for Millepied. He explained the connection between tennis and dance, stating, “Tennis is an art of change of direction, as is dance.” This comparison highlighted the fluidity and dynamic movement shared by both disciplines.

The initiative for such a bold undertaking came from the tournament’s director, Amélie Mauresmo, who perceived the opening ceremonies of past finals as lacking in grandeur. Mauresmo expressed a desire for ‘bold, big dances’ to truly elevate and enhance the experience. Millepied accepted this challenge with enthusiasm, aiming to push creative boundaries.

As dancers went through the vigorous preparations with Millepied, anticipation grew regarding how these performances would add to the grandeur and excitement of the French Open weekend.