August 15-17, 2026 • Paris

The Vendome Prize
Semi-Finals

Experience the pinnacle of cultural excellence. Witness world-class performers compete in the most prestigious arts competition of the year.

The Countdown Begins

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The Kulture Program

Three days of extraordinary performances, cultural exhibitions, and unforgettable moments.

🎭

Live Performances

Witness breathtaking performances from 24 semi-finalists representing 12 countries across multiple artistic disciplines.

🏆

Expert Judging

Our panel of internationally acclaimed artists and critics will evaluate each performance with precision and care.

🎨

Cultural Exhibitions

Explore curated exhibitions showcasing the rich heritage and contemporary innovation of participating cultures.

🎼

Master Classes

Attend exclusive workshops led by legendary performers and gain insights into the art of cultural expression.

🌟

Networking Events

Connect with fellow art enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the competitors themselves at our gala events.

🎪

Grand Finale

The culmination of three days of competition, featuring the top 6 finalists in a spectacular closing ceremony.

Event Highlights

Glimpses from previous editions of the Vendome Prize.

Performance Stage

Opening Night

The spectacular start of the competition

Audience

Captivated Audience

Thousands gathered to witness excellence

Cultural Event

Cultural Showcase

Celebrating diversity through art

Award Ceremony

Award Ceremony

Recognizing outstanding talent

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Limited seats available for this exclusive cultural experience. Book now and be part of history.

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Schedule - Vendome Prize Semi-Finals 2026
Day 1
August 15, 2026
Day 2
August 16, 2026
Day 3
August 17, 2026
18:00
Doors Open

Welcome Reception

Join us for an elegant welcome reception with champagne and canapés in the Grand Foyer.

Opening Grand Foyer
19:30
Evening

Opening Ceremony

Official opening of the Vendome Prize semi-finals with remarks from the jury president and cultural dignitaries.

Ceremony Main Hall
20:15
Evening

Performance Block A: Classical Arts

Eight semi-finalists showcase their mastery in classical performance disciplines including ballet, opera, and orchestral music.

Performance Main Stage
22:30
Late Evening

After-Party & Networking

Celebrate the first night with competitors, judges, and fellow attendees at our exclusive after-party.

Social Rooftop Terrace
10:00
Morning

Master Class: Contemporary Expression

Led by renowned artist Marie Laurent, explore the boundaries of contemporary performance art.

Workshop Studio A
14:00
Afternoon

Performance Block B: Modern Arts

Eight semi-finalists present innovative works blending traditional techniques with modern interpretation.

Performance Main Stage
17:00
Afternoon

Cultural Exhibition Opening

Explore curated exhibits showcasing the heritage and innovation of participating cultures.

Exhibition Gallery Wing
20:00
Evening

Performance Block C: Fusion Arts

The final eight semi-finalists present cross-disciplinary performances that push artistic boundaries.

Performance Main Stage
11:00
Morning

Jury Deliberation & Public Q&A

Watch the jury in discussion and participate in a live Q&A session about the competition criteria.

Interactive Forum Hall
15:00
Afternoon

Finalists Announcement

The six finalists are revealed in a dramatic announcement ceremony.

Announcement Main Hall
19:00
Evening

Grand Finale Performance

The six finalists deliver their ultimate performances in a spectacular closing show.

Finale Main Stage
22:00
Late Evening

Awards Ceremony & Gala

The culmination of three days: awards presentation, winner announcement, and celebratory gala dinner.

Awards Grand Ballroom
Grand Vendome Hall

Grand Vendome Hall

Located in the heart of Paris, the Grand Vendome Hall provides an exquisite setting for this prestigious cultural event.

  • Address: Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France
  • Capacity: 2,500 seats
  • Doors Open: 1 hour before each performance
  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
  • Parking: Underground parking available
Competitors - Vendome Prize Semi-Finals 2026
Isabella Moreau Day 1

Isabella Moreau

Classical Ballet

Principal dancer at the Paris Opera Ballet with 15 years of professional experience. Known for her ethereal interpretations of classical repertoire.

🇫🇷 France
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Hiroshi Tanaka Day 2

Hiroshi Tanaka

Contemporary Dance

Tokyo-based choreographer blending traditional Japanese movement with avant-garde contemporary expression. Award-winning artist.

🇯🇵 Japan
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Sofia Rodriguez Day 1

Sofia Rodriguez

Opera Soprano

Rising star in the world of opera, Sofia has performed at La Scala, the Met, and the Royal Opera House. Her voice captivates audiences worldwide.

🇸 Spain
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Alexander Petrov Day 1

Alexander Petrov

Classical Piano

Moscow Conservatory graduate and International Chopin Competition laureate. His interpretations are described as "transcendent" by critics.

🇷🇺 Russia
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Amara Okafor Day 2

Amara Okafor

Fusion Performance

Nigerian-British artist combining West African dance traditions with contemporary movement. Founder of the acclaimed Okafor Dance Company.

🇧 United Kingdom
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Marco Bellini Day 2

Marco Bellini

Violin Virtuoso

Italian violinist who began performing at age 7. Now 28, he has collaborated with the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna Symphony Orchestra.

🇹 Italy
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Elena Volkov Day 3

Elena Volkov

Contemporary Theatre

Avant-garde theatre director and performer from St. Petersburg. Her immersive performances challenge traditional boundaries of stage art.

🇷🇺 Russia
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Lucas Silva Day 3

Lucas Silva

Jazz Vocalist

Brazilian jazz singer whose smooth baritone has earned him comparisons to the greats. Performer at Montreux Jazz Festival three years running.

🇧🇷 Brazil
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Yuki Nakamura Day 1

Yuki Nakamura

Traditional Dance

Master of Japanese traditional dance forms, Yuki brings centuries-old techniques to modern audiences with breathtaking precision and grace.

🇯🇵 Japan
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24

Semi-Finalists

12

Countries

6

Disciplines

3

Performance Days

Cultural Events - Vendome Prize Kulture Program 2026
Art Exhibition
August 15-17, 2026

Heritage & Innovation Exhibition

A curated exhibition showcasing the intersection of traditional cultural heritage and contemporary artistic innovation. Features works from all 12 participating countries.

  • Location: Gallery Wing, Grand Vendome Hall
  • Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily
  • Admission: Included with event ticket
  • Curator: Dr. Claire Dubois
Learn More
Master Class
August 16, 2026

Master Class Series

Exclusive workshops led by legendary performers and industry experts. Limited to 30 participants per session for an intimate learning experience.

  • Sessions: 3 classes throughout the day
  • Duration: 2 hours per session
  • Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Certificate: Provided upon completion
Reserve Spot
Gala Dinner
August 17, 2026

Grand Gala Dinner

An elegant evening celebrating the culmination of three days of extraordinary performances. Enjoy a five-course meal prepared by Michelin-starred chefs while mingling with artists and patrons.

  • Dress Code: Black Tie
  • Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Venue: Grand Ballroom
  • Capacity: 200 guests
Book Table
Panel Discussion
August 16, 2026

Future of Cultural Arts Panel

A thought-provoking discussion featuring leading voices in the cultural arts sector. Explore trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of performance arts globally.

  • Moderator: Prof. Jean-Marc Laurent
  • Duration: 90 minutes + Q&A
  • Format: Hybrid (in-person & livestream)
  • Language: English with French translation
Register
About - Vendome Prize Kulture Program 2026

Our Story

Founded in 2010 by Philippe Vendome, the Vendome Prize was born from a vision to create a global platform where cultural excellence could be recognized, celebrated, and preserved for future generations.

What began as a small competition in Paris has grown into one of the most prestigious international cultural events, attracting artists from over 50 countries and drawing audiences of thousands each year.

The Kulture Program, introduced in 2015, expanded the Prize beyond competition to encompass a holistic celebration of cultural arts through exhibitions, master classes, and community engagement.

Vendome Prize History

Core Values

Cultural Diversity

We celebrate the rich tapestry of global cultures, ensuring representation from every corner of the world.

Artistic Excellence

We uphold the highest standards of artistic achievement, recognizing only the most exceptional talent.

🤝

Community Building

We foster connections between artists, audiences, and cultures to build a more understanding world.

🎓

Educational Mission

We invest in the next generation through master classes, scholarships, and mentorship programs.

🌱

Innovation

We encourage artists to push boundaries and explore new frontiers in cultural expression.

💎

Integrity

We maintain the highest ethical standards in judging, organization, and all aspects of the Prize.

Meet the Judges

Jean-Pierre Laurent

Jean-Pierre Laurent

Jury President

Former Director of the Paris Opera, 40 years in cultural arts leadership.

Maria Santos

Maria Santos

Dance Critic

Award-winning critic for Le Monde, specialist in contemporary dance.

Dr. Kenji Yamamoto

Dr. Kenji Yamamoto

Music Scholar

Professor at Tokyo University of Arts, renowned ethnomusicologist.

Isabella Ferrari

Isabella Ferrari

Theatre Director

La Scala veteran, director of over 100 international productions.

Milestones

2010

The Beginning

Philippe Vendome establishes the Prize with 8 competitors from 4 countries in a small Parisian venue.

2013

International Expansion

The Prize grows to include 16 competitors from 10 countries, gaining international recognition.

2015

Kulture Program Launch

Introduction of the Kulture Program with exhibitions, master classes, and community events.

2018

Grand Vendome Hall

The Prize moves to its permanent home at the prestigious Grand Vendome Hall in Paris.

2022

Global Recognition

UNESCO recognizes the Vendome Prize as a model for cultural preservation and excellence.

2026

The Present

24 semi-finalists from 12 countries compete in the most ambitious edition yet, with expanded digital reach.

Be Part of Our Story

Join us in Paris this August for an unforgettable celebration of cultural excellence. Your presence supports the future of the arts.

Get Your Tickets