Prime Video’s Étoile Explores Dance’s Challenges and Triumphs

LOS ANGELES, CA — After a decade-long hiatus from the dance world, the creative team of Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino is set to unveil their new series, Étoile, premiering on Prime Video on April 24. Following their previous work on Bunheads, this upcoming drama will focus on the struggles and dynamics of ballet through the lens of two major ballet companies – one in New York and one in Paris.

Étoile, which translates to ‘star’ in French, aims to capture the peculiar and whimsical aspects of the dance community that Sherman-Palladino feels have been largely ignored in previous portrayals. “There’s a weirdness in the dance world that I wanted to explore. Dancers are an odd, amazing bunch of people,” she expressed in an interview discussing the genesis of the show.

Charlotte Gainsbourg stars as Geneviève, the interim general director of l’Opera Francais and Le Ballet National, highlighting the current state of the ballet industry. “A lot of our dancers have abandoned toe shoes for TikToks,” she remarks, pointing to a shift in interests among younger dancers. The series seeks to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, echoing concerns raised by Sherman-Palladino about lost opportunities in training and careers for young dancers during the pandemic’s height.

In a strategic effort to revitalize audience engagement, Geneviève proposes a talent exchange between her company and the Metropolitan Ballet Theater in New York, led by Jack, played by Luke Kirby. This plot device, Sherma-Palladino notes, was inspired by the potential benefits of swapping talent to engage and draw in audiences once again. “We were unaware of any real-life basis for this concept, but it just felt right given the fragility of the art form,” she stated.

The series is comprised of eight episodes, each designed to delve into the nuances of the ballet world while also addressing broader themes such as perseverance in the face of challenges. “Ballet is still endangered due to various external pressures, and we wanted to highlight the passion and dedication of these artists,” Sherman-Palladino continued.

Additionally, the casting reflects the Palladino’s commitment to authenticity in the ballet world, with actual dancers featured in various roles. The creators collaborated closely with their choreographer Marguerite Derricks to ensure that the portrayal of dance was accurate and respectful. “Dancers have a specific way of moving, and it was imperative for us to get that right,” Palladino shared.

While there will be comedic elements, as highlighted by Gainsbourg’s remarks about her character, the series also seeks to shed light on the difficulties faced by dancers and arts organizations today. “Without ballet, the world is a lesser place,” Sherman-Palladino said, emphasizing her lifelong admiration for the art form.

Throughout their careers, the Palladinos have woven emotionally resonant narratives into their works. Kirby, reflecting on his experience with the creative duo, said, “They have a unique way of blending humor and depth that keeps you engaged, and I am grateful for the opportunity to explore such a rich subject matter.”

As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds for how Étoile will present a fresh perspective on the world of ballet while keeping audiences entertained. With Amazon already greenlighting a second season, the stakes for the characters and the art form itself appear higher than ever.

In a time when arts organizations face increasing challenges, Sherman-Palladino poignantly remarks, “Art can change thought processes and lives. Without it, life is just not life.” With this new series, she and Palladino invite viewers to dance alongside them as they explore the enduring allure of ballet.