It's hard not to be awestruck by this "imperial theatre", a 19th masterpiece in which every detail is dedicated to music and dance. Yet when it was built in 1860, its architect, Charles Garnier, was only 35 and quite unknown.(...)
Welcome backstage... to the inner sanctum, where the corps de ballet goes through its paces. Over the bed is the Opera Garnier's trademark oeil-de-boeuf window; underfoot, solid oak parquet. The room is delightfully dressed: mirrors, a ballet barre and satin pumps all add to the ambiance. Go on, live out your dreams...