Starting their training with stretching at 9 a.m., some students are still at the facility by 9 p.m.
Léo Lussier shared that his parents initially urged him to try soccer, but his passion for dancing quickly became evident.
Commuting from Montreal’s South Shore to the Plateau neighborhood, Lussier dedicates long hours at the Ãcole supérieure de ballet du Québec (ESBQ) for classes, rehearsals, and academic studies, totaling up to 12 hours daily.
Among over 160 students at ESBQ, the sole professional classical ballet school in North America offering French training, many view it as more than just an educational institution.
For Héloïse Léveillé, spending six days a week at ESBQ makes it feel like a second home, where she interacts more with teachers and peers than her own family.
Victoria Villegas Azuaje, a student since 2012, echoes the sentiment by stating her familiarity with the building’s layout.
While celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, ESBQ faces financial challenges, as highlighted by Executive director Alix Laurent.
Laurent notes that government support has stagnated for 30 years, with a minimal increase from $1.3 million in 1994 to $1.4 million presently.
Requesting an additional $1.1 million per annum starting next year, ESBQ aims to uphold its high-quality training standards.
Anik Bissonnette, the artistic director and former principal dancer, emphasizes the evolution of ballet training to encompass various essential elements for dancer development.
She highlights the inclusion of physical conditioning, injury prevention support, mental preparation, and specialized guidance alongside ballet technique classes.
Expressing concerns over potential budget cuts, Laurent contemplates the impact on crucial areas like live piano accompaniment, strength training, and support services.
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