description Genus Overview
Genus is a one-act contemporary ballet choreographed by Wayne McGregor for the Paris Opera Ballet. Created in collaboration with artist Vicki Mortimer and composer Joby Talbot, it draws on ideas associated with Charles Darwin, evolution, classification, and human movement. The work uses McGregor's highly articulated physical vocabulary and is intended for audiences interested in abstract ballet shaped by scientific concepts rather than a conventional narrative.
help Genus FAQ
Who choreographed Genus and for which company?
Wayne McGregor created Genus for the Paris Opera Ballet, commissioned by the Opéra national de Paris. It premiered at the Palais Garnier on 26 October 2007 and lasts about 45 minutes. [Studio Wayne McGregor](https://waynemcgregor.com/productions/genus)
What scientific idea inspired Genus?
The ballet draws on Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species, published in 1859, and on ideas about evolution, classification, and human movement. It turns those ideas into fast, highly articulated movement rather than telling Darwin's biography. [Studio Wayne McGregor](https://waynemcgregor.com/productions/genus)
Who composed Genus and designed it?
Joby Talbot and the electronic musician Deru created the original music, while Vicki Mortimer designed the sets and costumes. Lucy Carter handled lighting and Ravi Deepres created the video design for the 23-dancer work. [Studio Wayne McGregor](https://waynemcgregor.com/productions/genus)
Is Genus a full-length narrative ballet?
No. Genus is a 45-minute contemporary work for 23 dancers, built as an abstract response to Darwinian thought. It belongs to McGregor's Paris Opera Ballet works alongside L'Anatomie de la sensation and Alea Sands. [Studio Wayne McGregor](https://waynemcgregor.com/productions/genus)
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