The upcoming Prime Video series Étoile is set to dazzle viewers with its captivating mix of ballet, drama, and comedy, filmed in the stunning Étoile filming locations of New York City and Paris. Created by Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, the minds behind The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, this series explores the high-stakes world of professional ballet. At NetFilming, we dive into the iconic venues where Étoile was filmed, revealing the real-world settings that bring this story to life. From historic opera houses to modern performance centers, these locations add authenticity and elegance to the show. Let’s explore the filming locations that make Étoile a visual masterpiece.
About Étoile Series
Étoile is a ballet-centric comedy-drama that immerses viewers in the competitive and glamorous world of professional dance. Created by Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, the series centers on two prestigious ballet companies facing financial challenges. To survive, they exchange their top dancers, sparking rivalries, personal growth, and artistic innovation. The show blends sharp humor, heartfelt moments, and stunning choreography, a signature of the Palladinos’ work seen in Gilmore Girls and Bunheads.
Set to launch on April 24, 2025, on Prime Video, Étoile features eight episodes available in over 240 countries. The cast includes acclaimed actors like Charlotte Gainsbourg and Luke Kirby, alongside professional dancers such as Tiler Peck and Robert Fairchild, ensuring authentic ballet sequences. Choreographed by Marguerite Derricks, the performances highlight the physical and emotional demands of dance. With a two-season order, Étoile promises a rich narrative exploring ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of excellence, set against the vibrant backdrops of New York and Paris. This series is a must-watch for fans of drama and dance alike.
Where was Étoile filmed?
The series is set in New York City and Paris, reflecting the dual settings of the two ballet companies. Filming took place in these cities to capture their distinct cultural and theatrical atmospheres, which are central to the show’s narrative.
New York City
New York City, a global arts capital, is a key filming location for Étoile. Its dynamic energy and iconic venues provide the perfect setting for the American ballet company’s story. Here’s a look at the primary New York location used in the series:
Metropolitan Opera House
Situated at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the Metropolitan Opera House is a cultural landmark in New York. This world-renowned venue, famous for hosting elite opera and ballet performances, is central to Étoile. Its expansive stage and opulent interiors, with grand chandeliers and red velvet seating, create a luxurious setting for the show’s ballet sequences and backstage drama. As a home to the American Ballet Theatre, the opera house adds authenticity to the series’ portrayal of professional dance.
The Metropolitan Opera House symbolizes artistic excellence, making it a fitting choice for Étoile. Its inclusion highlights the show’s dedication to capturing the real ballet world. Visitors to New York can explore Lincoln Center, where this venue stands as a top destination for art enthusiasts.
Paris
Paris, with its deep ballet heritage and stunning architecture, is the second major filming location for Étoile. The city’s venues bring timeless elegance to the series, reflecting the prestige of the Parisian ballet company. Below are the key Parisian locations featured:
Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier, or Paris Opera House, is a historic landmark and one of the world’s most iconic ballet venues. Its lavish design, with golden statues, intricate frescoes, and a grand staircase, makes it a standout setting for Étoile. Built in the 19th century, it houses the Paris Opera Ballet, a leading ballet company. In the series, the Palais Garnier hosts captivating performances and key plot moments for the French dancers.
This venue’s cultural significance enhances Étoile’s authenticity. Its massive stage and elegant auditorium provide a breathtaking backdrop for dance sequences. The Palais Garnier represents Parisian artistry, adding historical depth to the show’s narrative.
Salle Favart
Salle Favart, home to the Opéra-Comique, adds a unique charm to Étoile’s Parisian scenes. This intimate theater, known for performances blending singing and acting, features classic decor and a cozy atmosphere. Built in the 18th century, it offers a historic yet approachable setting for character-driven moments in the series.
Salle Favart’s elegance complements the grandeur of the Palais Garnier, showcasing Paris’s diverse performance spaces. Fans visiting Paris can experience its rich history and artistic vibe.
New Jersey
Étoile was also filmed in New Jersey at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark. This modern venue, with its sleek design and superior acoustics, was used for several ballet sequences. NJPAC hosts diverse performances, including dance, theater, and concerts, making it a versatile filming location. Its advanced facilities and large stage allowed the production team to capture intricate dance scenes with precision.
NJPAC highlights New Jersey’s rising status as a filming hub. Its focus on community arts aligns with Étoile’s themes of passion and creativity. For local fans, this location adds a personal connection to the series.
Étoile Behind the Scenes
The making of Étoile is as fascinating as its story, with a talented team bringing the ballet world to life. Filming began in January 2024, spanning New York, Paris, and New Jersey. The production, led by Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, involved collaboration with choreographer Marguerite Derricks, who crafted intricate dance sequences. Professional dancers like Tiler Peck and Robert Fairchild worked alongside actors, ensuring realistic performances. This blend of talent required careful coordination to balance acting and dance.
Filming in iconic venues like the Palais Garnier and Metropolitan Opera House posed logistical challenges, such as scheduling around live performances. The team used authentic costumes and sets to reflect ballet’s elegance, with Derricks emphasizing emotional storytelling through movement. The Palladinos’ hands-on approach, honed from Bunheads, ensured sharp dialogue and heartfelt moments. Executive producers, including Dhana Rivera Gilbert and Scott Ellis, supported the vision, making Étoile a seamless blend of art and drama.
At NetFilming, we believe exploring these locations deepens your connection to Étoile. As you await the April 24, 2025, premiere, watch for these iconic settings—they’re integral to the story. Get ready to enter the enchanting world of Étoile.
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