The French honour recognizes exceptional contributions to arts and culture.
Ballet BC is thrilled to celebrate a remarkable honour for Artistic Director Medhi Walerski, who has been officially designated a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by France’s Ministry of Culture.
One of France’s highest cultural distinctions, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and culture. For Medhi, whose artistic journey began in France and has taken him to leading dance companies and stages around the world, the honour is a meaningful recognition of his enduring contribution to dance.
The distinction was presented by Mr. Raphaël Dang, Consul General of France in Vancouver, in the company of Ballet BC’s dancers and team, as well as close friends and supporters.
"France has a long tradition of supporting the arts and artists, it's something deeply rooted in our collective identity. It recognizes artistic excellence, certainly, but it also recognizes something broader—the ability of artists to create connections, inspire others, and therefore contribute to cultural diplomacy between countries such as France and Canada. As a dancer and a choreographer, this is exactly what Medhi has to offer. By dancing, creating, and supporting artists, by innovating, Medhi has embodied the artistic excellence of our country abroad."
Mr. Raphaël Dang
A celebrated choreographer in his own right, Medhi’s work has been presented by companies around the world. His career has been shaped by collaboration with many of contemporary dance’s most influential artists, and by a commitment to creating work that is bold, human and deeply connected to the artists who bring it to life.
Since becoming Ballet BC’s Artistic Director in 2020, Medhi has brought his international experience and collaborative artistic practice to Vancouver, guiding the company through a period of growth and transformation. Under his leadership, Ballet BC has expanded its international presence, supported the development of new voices in choreography, and continued to champion ambitious, innovative contemporary dance.
We are immensely proud to celebrate this well-deserved honour. Félicitations, Medhi!
Medhi Walerski with Consul General of France in Vancouver, Raphaël Dang.
"I am deeply touched to receive this medal, but above all, I feel an enormous sense of gratitude. I don’t consider it something that belongs to me alone. It also belongs to France, the country where I began dancing and where I received my first artistic education — a place that gave me so much: a love of art, music and dance, a strong sense of discipline and excellence, and a belief in the power of live performance. It belongs to all the dancers, artists, musicians, designers, technicians, teams and supporters who make dance possible. Above all, I receive it with deep gratitude for everyone who has been, and continues to be, part of my journey."
Medhi Walerski
