Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse

Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse: The Dance Event in Biarritz

Since 1990, the festival Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse has made Biarritz and the Basque Country a capital of dance every September. Born from the initiative of Biarritz Culture and its president Jakes Abeberry, the festival has, from its early editions, forged a path between heritage and modernity, inviting prestigious international companies such as the Ballets de Monte-Carlo, the Kirov Ballet, and William Forsythe's Ballet Frankfurt.

An Exceptional Artistic Direction

Under the artistic direction of Thierry Malandain, director of Malandain Ballet Biarritz (National Choreographic Center), the festival annually presents a program that combines artistic excellence and accessibility. Thierry Malandain, an internationally recognized choreographer, imbues the festival with an ambitious vision that blends the great classics of ballet with the most contemporary creations.

A Rich and Diverse Program

Le Temps d'Aimer offers over 75 performances over ten days, covering all dance styles:

• Classical and Neoclassical Ballet: Major national and international companies present works from the classical repertoire and neoclassical creations.
• Contemporary Dance: The most inventive choreographers on the contemporary scene present their latest creations.
• Traditional Dances: Basque dances and choreographic traditions from around the world are highlighted.
• Performances and Hybrid Forms: Shows that blend dance with other artistic disciplines (music, visual arts, theater).

A Festival That Shines Beyond Biarritz

Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse is not limited to Biarritz. The festival extends to 8 towns and 7 theaters within the Basque Country Agglomeration Community, with performances, conferences, and workshops throughout the region. This territorial dimension makes the festival a unifying event that contributes to the cultural influence of the entire Basque Country.

Workshops, Conferences, and Meetings

Beyond the performances, Le Temps d'Aimer offers a rich program of parallel activities:

• Dance Workshops: Classes and workshops open to all levels allow the public to practice dance with professionals.
• Conferences and Round Tables: Meetings with choreographers and dancers enrich the understanding of the works.
• Biarritz Dance Academy: Intensive courses for professional and advanced amateur dancers.
• Solidarity Pricing: The festival offers solidarity pricing to promote access to culture for all audiences.

A Living Heritage of Dance

With over 35 editions, Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse has become a living heritage of the French choreographic scene. The festival has hosted the biggest names in world dance and has helped make Biarritz a reference city for dance in France and internationally.