There's something about being backstage, if you're not normally privy to it, that feels so special. It sounds so cheesy to say, but it feels like you're truly getting a window into "where the magic happens." Nowhere does this feel more the case than at this divine place - the Paris Opera House, the Palais Garnier. I had the amazing opportunity to do just that - see the magic being made, even getting to see the beautiful aliens who are professional ballerinas - last month with my friend, an artistic director at the Opera. Before the opera house opened to the public during the day, we toured the spectacular empty lobby & theater; the bustling-with-workers backstage and sewing ateliers; and briefly sat in on rehearsals with the incredibly lithe dancers in the various rehearsal rooms (HIGHLIGHT- but no images of them, sorry!). Here are my pictures from that amazing day. xcv 
Exterior Shot 
Winding up the back staircases, I couldn't help being stunned by the views of the city. 
Floors, walls, ceilings, chairs, everything was stunning! The ceiling in the theater is by Marc Chagall. I could not believe the beauty. 
Everything is made on the premises - all costumes, headpieces, tutus - everything made to measure for each dancer. They were getting ready for the next ballet, Romeo and Juliet. I only wish I could see the dance itself. Next time, I'll make sure to actually see a performance.
Exterior Shot Winding up the back staircases, I couldn't help being stunned by the views of the city. Floors, walls, ceilings, chairs, everything was stunning! The ceiling in the theater is by Marc Chagall. I could not believe the beauty. Everything is made on the premises - all costumes, headpieces, tutus - everything made to measure for each dancer. They were getting ready for the next ballet, Romeo and Juliet. I only wish I could see the dance itself. Next time, I'll make sure to actually see a performance.