Admission Guide 2025 by École supérieure de ballet du Québec

ADMISSION GUIDE 2025

PROFESSIONAL FORMATION

Performance · Teaching · Ballet Accompaniment

OUR SCHOOL

HISTORY AND MISSION

The origins of the École supérieure de ballet du Québec date back to the early 1950s. Ludmilla Chiriaeff, dancer, choreographer and dance teacher arrived in Montréal just as the very first French-language television network was launched. While Madame Chiriaeff lost no time in applying her talent and energy to Radio-Canada’s variety programs, she did not limit herself to the small screen. True to her pioneering spirit, she gave Québec society its first major classical dance company, establishing Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and the École supérieure, its first national establishment dedicated to professional dance training. In 1966, at the request of the Québec Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Madame Chiriaeff incorporated the École supérieure.

In 1980, the two affiliated institutions moved to the Maison de la danse du Québec, located on Plateau Mont-Royal, in a major hub of artistic training. The École supérieure established the Bibliothèque de la danse VincentWarren, which has become Canada’s leading dance documentation centre.

The École supérieure remains, more than half a century after its founding by Mrs. Ludmilla Chiriaeff, the only francophone institution in North America that offers a world-class training in ballet.

ARTISTIC PHILOSOPHY

The personal evolution of our students is at the heart of our mission.

We value ballet as an ever-evolving tradition. We believe it is important to nurture our students to develop their mind, spirit, and body in movement in order to respond to the demands of today’s dynamic and expressive dance creations.

As choreography becomes borderless, we also believe that dance artists must be trained to be versatile, creative, and motivated to push the boundaries of the past. Just as choreographers today draw on multiple disciplines to create dance, at the École supérieure we optimize learning so that each student will be able to embark on a journey where their talent will best be served.

We strive to foster our students to emerge as complete artists who are engaged, invested, passionate, and stimulated. As they develop autonomy with a professional focus, our students become independent learners and the architects of their own bodies and their continuing evolution.

«Today, the École supérieure’s primary mission remains the professional training of dancers for the major dance companies around the world, including Les Grands Ballets, famous institution with which our school is affiliated.»

ANIK BISSONNETTE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Principal dancer of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens for close to 17 years, Anik Bissonnette has devoted her energies, since 2010, to communicate her knowledge to a new generation of dancers worthy of the finest dance companies in Québec, Canada and the world.

LUDMILLA CHIRIAEFF, FOUNDER

OUR PROGRAMS LEADING TO A CAREER IN DANCE

PERFORMANCE (Interpretation)

Admission by audition

TEACHING

Based on an assesment of qualifications

BALLET ACCOMPANIMENT

Admission by audition

Flexible program, in person or online including observation, theory and practice

Post-Secondary Diploma in Classical Dance Performance

YOUR PASSION, YOUR CAREER

PROFESSIONAL DANCER

trained for Les Grands Ballets and other dance companies in Québec, Canada and around the world

DANCE TEACHER

for Recreational and / or Professional

Teacher Training Diploma

PLAY THE PIANO TO ACCOMPANY A DANCE CLASS

The professional program in performance aims for the holistic development of students, incorporating morphological, psychological, artistic, technical and scholastic components. The artistic direction strives to combine the best elements of proven methods, while remaining on the lookout for the latest developments in the art of movement.

The professional program is subdivided into cycles that fairly reflect the evolution of the training program, that is to say, the requirements in term of time and commitment.

In the Junior cycle, classes are held after school and on Saturdays. From the Intermediate Cycle, students embark on a dance-studies course and have the possibility to choose between the official curriculum or the dance-only curriculum.

2 POSSIBLE CURRICULA

OFFICIAL CURRICULUM

(Dance and Academic Pathway)

• Professional ballet training offered in conjunction with renowned academic partners.

• Obtain a secondary school diploma (SSD) issued by the Government of Québec and an attestation of studies in classical dance from the École supérieure.

• Obtain a diploma of college studies (DCS) in classical dance-interpretation (561.BA.) issued by the Government of Québec and a graduate diploma in classical dance from the École supérieure.

DANCE-ONLY CURRICULUM

• Same professional training course exclusively in dance.

• Offers the possibility of taking correspondence courses.

• Leads to a Graduate Diploma in classical dance issued by the École supérieure.

BOYS

The École supérieure de ballet du Québec believes that it is important to provide young men with solid technique, allowing them to develop the strength and precision needed to perform movements specific to them (jumps, lifts, etc.). For this reason, from the elementary level, boys take dynamic classes designed for them. In these classes, which are open exclusively to boys, students receive in-depth training in the specifically masculine aspects of classical technique, with a focus on vitality, endurance and action, in order to train top-level athletes.

Possibility of a bursary covering up to the full cost of dance fees (see p. 16).

From Intermediate cycle

AUDITIONS

To audition, potential students must meet requirements with regards to age and school level (as of September 30, of the current year), health and aptitude for dance. Candidates from 10 to 20 years old and of all levels can audition for the professional program. However, the later a student enters the program, the stricter the technical requirements.

Consisting of the École supérieure’s artistic director and teachers, the jury evaluates technique in classical ballet, in addition to coordination, flexibility, musicality, expressiveness, etc.

INSCRIPTION

REGISTRATION DEADLINE : JANUARY 20, 2025

Fill the form on www.esbq.ca

Fees of $45

Add two photos in ballet attire

Face All Candidates

Arms Against Body Grade 5 to 6 in 2025-2026 (ages 9-11)

Tendu in second Grade 7 to 9 in 2025-2026 (ages 11-14)

JANUARY 26 2025

AUDITIONS

JUNIOR CYCLE

AUDITIONS BEFORE A JURY

1re arabesque in profile Grade 10 and older in 2025-2026 (ages 14 and up)

White t-shirt, black shorts or tights and demi-pointe shoes

Junior auditions are for young people entering Grade 5 to 6 in 2025-2026. They take place on site only. No videos accepted.

INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED AND SUPERIOR CYCLES

VIDEO SCREENING AUDITIONS BEFORE A JURY

Dance leotard with pink tights, demi-pointe and pointe shoes (if applicable) and hair bun ON AUDITION DAY, WEAR THE APPROPRIATE OUTFIT hours hours

Candidates from outside Quebec and abroad can audition by video. However, it is always preferable to audition in person. +

Latecomers are not admitted, and parents may not attend the audition.

© MICHAEL SLOBODIAN

HOW TO PREPARE A VIDEO AUDITION ?

ALL CANDIDATES

Video audition (hyperlink) must be filmed with the camera at the body height and must include the following:

• Facing front: Simply stand, facing the camera, arms relaxed along the body.

• Profile position: As above, but stand sideways to the camera.

• Pointing feet: Sitting on the ground, profile to the camera, extend the legs in front of the body and point both feet.

• Flexing feet: Sitting on the ground, profile to the camera, extend the legs in front of the body and flex feet. The heels can lift off the ground.

• External rotation (turnout): Lying on the ground, on the back, put the legs in a demi plié position (the frog). Try not to arch the back. Repeat the same position while lying on the stomach.

• Back flexibility : Lying on the stomach, place both hands underneath the shoulders and push up with the arms only. The hips must stay on the ground.

• Flexibility: Sitting on the ground, profile to the camera, with legs extended in front, lean forward and if possible, touch the feet while keeping the legs straight.

• CANDIDATES 11 TO 12 YEARS OF AGE

• Exercises at the barre: pliés, tendus, grands battements, etc.

• Musicality and coordination: skip in a circle or in diagonal on a musical accompaniment.

• Artistry: perform a short choreography.

CANDIDATES 13 YEARS OF AGE AND UP

Perform a short ballet class with these elements:

• Barre (one side only)

• Centre: tendus, adage, pirouettes and jumps (small, medium and big allegro)

• Girls add one pointe exercise in the centre (preferably a pirouette exercise) and one variation, depending on the level.

SUMMER INTENSIVE

Candidates retained after the first audition are required to participate in the entire summer intensive program

An open class and short presentations to parents are held on the last day of the summer intensive program.

Summer Intensive enables students to experience the daily training at the École supérieure. The schedule, according to the cycle, includes ballet, pointe, character or contemporary dance classes. Different repertoires are explored such as classical or neoclassical, as well as health workshop. This period is mandatory to all students entering the Junior, Intermediate, Advanced or Superior cycles in 2025-2026.

SUMMER INTENSIVE COURSES:

• Ballet ;

• Pointe Work ;

• Boys’ Technique ;

• Contemporary Dance ;

• Conditioning ;

• Classical, Neo-Classical and Contemporary Repertoire ;

• Health Workshops.

Participation in the health workshops is mandatory as well as the dance classes, as these learnings are an integral part of the school curriculum and are required to obtain the secondary school diploma (SSD).

INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED AND SUPERIOR CYCLES FROM JUNE 30 TO JULY 11 2025 FROM JUNE 30 TO AUGUST 1ST 2025

JUNIOR CYCLE

COURSES AND TYPICAL DAYS

JUNIOR CYCLE

GRADE 5 TO 6

The Junior Cycle is the introduction to the professional program in classical dance performance. Classes take place after school, starting at 4:30 p.m., as well as on Saturdays.

Courses include amon others:

• Ballet

• Creation

• Character dances

• Physical training

Evaluated each year, students must meet the objectives and requirements to be promoted to a higher level. Otherwise, the child can continue to practice dance in the recreational program.

COURSES AND TYPICAL DAYS

INTERMEDIATE CYCLE

GRADE 7 TO 9

As of the Intermediate Cycle, the student enters the danse-étude program which allows students to combine learning dance and academic studies.

Grade 8: classes on Saturday starting in January Grade 9: classes on Saturday from 10:45 to 13:00

ADVANCED CYCLE

GRADE 10 AND 11

In the Advanced Cycle, the student’s schedule allows them to concentrate exclusively on academic studies on Mondays and devote themselves entirely to dancing on Saturdays. TYPICAL

Classes:

• Ballet;

• Pointe Work;

• Boys’ Technique;

• Character Dance (Grade 7);

• Contemporary Dance (From Grade 8);

• Conditioning;

• Classical, Neo-Classical and Contemporary Repertoire.

Classes:

• Ballet;

• Pointe Work;

• Boys’ Technique;

• Contemporary Dance ;

• Conditioning;

• Repertoire;

• Choreographic Workshop;

• Partnering.

SCHOOL PARTNER

Located in Outremont, the Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie (PSNM) is a private French-language high school for girls, dedicated to providing a high-level education to develop the full potential of the young people who will shape tomorrow’s world. The school also welcomes boys in its Dance-Studies and Music-Studies profiles. Offering personalized, caring and rigorous guidance, the school encourages reflection, experimentation and innovation to help its students become well-balanced, thoughtful individuals open to the world. The partnership between the PSNM and the École supérieure is unique in Quebec. The teaching methods take into account the realities of student’s life, and offer a timetable adapted to their needs.

SUPERIOR CYCLE

AVERAGE

SCHOOL PARTNER

Partner with the École supérieure since 1979, the Cégep du Vieux Montréal is the only educational establishment in Québec that issues a college diploma in classical dance. This prominent school is known especially for the high quality of its many arts-based technical training programs.

photo KHAYMAN

ON STAGE

The performance program provides a varied range of experiences in different professional contexts by allowing students to participate in major productions along with recognized artists and organizations, in the most prestigious venues of the city.

All photos are from the show Corps de ballet © SASHA ONYSHCHENKO

SERVICES

ENCOURAGEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

To ensure that every young talent has the chance to pursue a career in dance, regardless of their financial situation, the Foundation of the École supérieure offers annual scholarships to students. Thanks to the Anik Bissonnette - Fund for Excellence, our high-level training is more easily accessible to young people from families with modest incomes or from remote regions.

Steps to apply for a bursary

- A link to the bursary application form will be sent to you with the registration information.

- This form must be completed by the person financially responsible for the student at the time of registration.

- All applications are then studied confidentially by the Foundation’s scholarship committee.

- The allocated amount is variable and can cover up to the full cost of dance fees, but excludes related expenses such as registration, services, or school transportation.

- Students who receive a bursary may be asked to contribute to activities organized by the École supérieure and its foundation.

HEALTH

The École supérieure attaches the utmost importance to the well-being and physical and mental health of the high-level athletes it trains. A true leader in the field, our approach to training and prevention is based on scientific research and listening to students’ needs.

Our curriculum includes a variety of workshops: physical preparation, movement mechanics and foot care; mental preparation and performance; self-esteem, body image perception; nutrition and prevention of eating disorders; cooking classes, and more. Individual meetings with a member of the health team can also address more specific concerns or needs as required.

Thanks to the weekly physiotherapy service and strategic partnerships, the Health & Wellness Manager is able to guide students and their parents towards health specialists with expertise in the assessment, treatment and support of young dance athletes.

The individualized approach developed by the École supérieure responds to the uniqueness of each young person and encourages autonomy and the development of full artistic potential in a healthy and stimulating environment.

ACCOMMODATION SOLUTIONS

The École supérieure does not offer accommodation services for its students, but it does offer a network of host families in Montreal for students of the Intermediate, Advanced and Superior cycles and for students participating in the intensive summer session. Information : hebergement@esbq.ca

BIBLIOTHÈQUE DE LA DANSE VINCENT-WARREN

Located on the first floor of the Maison de la danse du Québec Ludmilla-Chiriaeff, the library contains the largest specialized dance collection in Canada and one of the most oustanding in the world, with over 42,000 documents. The free subscription to the Bibliothèque de la danse Vincent-Warren is part of the Professional Program student privileges.

REGISTRATIONS AND FEES

When students are admitted, they must complete their registration with both the École supérieure and the academic partner corresponding to their level, if they choose the official curriculum. The fees displayed do not take into account the material and fees associated with certain activities that take place during the year. Additional fees may also be requested by our school partners. Please contact them for more details.

FOREIGN STUDENTS

Upon receipt of their acceptance letter, foreign students can start the process to obtain a student’s permit. Foreign students must obtain the following documents:

Registration fees are also required for academic courses at our partner institutions. Registration fees vary for students from Quebec, Canada and abroad. Payment of these fees must be made to the partner establishments. PSNM : https://www.psnm.qc.ca/fr/admission/conditions-financieres Cegep : https://www.cvm.qc.ca/etudes-au-collegial/#frais-relies-aux-etudes

DANCE ONLY CURRICULUM

• a Québec Acceptance Certificate for studies https://www.quebec.ca/en/ education/study-quebec/temporaryselection-studies

• a study permit http://www.cic.gc.ca

• insurance in the event of accident.

For additional information on the process for obtaining a visa, please contact the ManagerRegistrar’s Office and Student Services.

SUMMER INTENSIVE

The Summer Intensive is mandatory for anyone admitted for the 2025-2026 school year. For intermediate, advanced and senior cycles, it’s therefore part of the full school year tuition. In the event of departure after the intensive course or before September 15, 2025, the Summer Intensive fees indicated in this chart will be retained.

* Financial assistance may be available from the Ministry of Education for accommodation and travel.

INTERPRÉTATION

My profession DANSER

The École supérieure de ballet du Québec is proud to be affiliated with Les Grands Ballets

Our graduates dancing today for

Les Grands Ballets Canadiens

ALEXANDRA ECCLES Graduate 2021

BERNARD DUBOIS II Graduate 2016

ANAÏS ROY Graduate 2023

CARRIGAN MACDONALD Graduate 2021

CATHERINE TOUPIN Graduate 2017

BENJAMIN POIRIER Graduate 2024

ROSE TRAHAN Graduate 2018

ÉLIANE JACQUES Graduate 2024

MAUDE FLEURY Graduate 2021

TATIANA LEREBOURS Graduate 2019

ÉTIENNE GAGNON-DELORME Graduate 2017

MAUDE SABOURIN Graduate 2006

TUESDAY RAIN LEDUC Graduate 2023

FRANÇOIS GAGNÉ Graduate 2021

RAPHAËL BOUCHARD Graduate 2005

THE ÉCOLE SUPÉRIEURE LEADS TO THE WORLD’S GREATEST STAGES

COMPAGNIE MARIE CHOUINARD

Adrian Batt

JANIE & MARCIO

Janie Richard

RUBBERBAND

Zao Dinel

Antoine Charbonneau

BALLETT HAGEN

SLOBODIAN

STAATSBALLETT BERLIN

Cohen Aitchison-Dugas

BALLETT ZÜRICH compagnie Junior Quentin Nabor

BALLET OF DIFFERENCE (Cologne)

Pier-Loup Lacour

BALLET DE L’OPÉRA

NATIONAL DU RHIN

Pierre-Émile Lemieux-Venne

A springboard to a national and international career.

FREELANCE ARTIST IN EUROPE Ève-Marie Dalcourt

- Danced with NEDERLANDS DANS THEATER 2

- Rehearsal Assistant for Alexander Ekman with OPÉRA DE PARIS and STAATSBALLET BERLIN, among others.

GALEN HIGGINS

TEACHING

LEARN TO PASS ON YOUR PASSION

With more than half a century’s tradition, the École supérieure is an establishment committed to transmitting the necessary know-how to teach classical dance, both for recreational and / or professional students. In line with the reality of the working world, this program is also offered on a parttime basis.

Training hours, including practical internships

«Teaching allows me to share the extensive performing experience I acquired over the years as principal dancer with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, then with La La La Human Steps. However, in order to properly guide my students in their development, I felt that I needed more knowledge in areas such as anatomy, music and psychology. Today, I am better equipped to plan courses and develop exercises suited to the challenges my students face.»

— Andrea Boardman, Graduate

CLASSES

IN FRENCH ONLY

• Initiation to the career;

• Principles of anatomy applied to the teaching of dance;

• Principles of dance psychopedagogy of dance;

• Music and dance teaching;

• Development of dance learning activities for dance;

• Teaching strategies;

• Evaluation in dance;

• Introduction to the work environment I & II;

• Interpretation of a program;

• Practical teaching workshop;

• Production of a show.

PREREQUISITES

• A Dance Performance (561. BA) DCS in Classical Dance or equivalent or

• Professional experience as a dancer or

• Previous experience in dance teaching;

• Have sufficient knowledge of written and spoken French.

APPLICATION MUST INCLUDE

• Résumé;

• Letter of intent;

• Letter of support from an employer

For further information, please contact Christine Williams, Associate Director - Teaching Program and Regional Partnerships, christine.williams@esbq.ca

ACCOMPANYING A BALLET CLASS A SPECIALIZED TRAINING FOR PIANISTS

Accompanying a ballet class is an art form that requires a great deal of training and experience. This expertise is accessible through our ballet accompanist course that includes observation, theory and practice.

« The musical accompaniment formation explains ballet vocabulary and the music we can use to support movement. In fact, it’s not just a matter of accompanying ballet exercises. Our music must create a synergy with the dance steps so that this encounter becomes one thing and a unique art form. »

- Elaine Gaertner, Head of Pianists and Music Education

CLASSES

• Introduction to ballet vocabulary;

• Definition of the musical structure of exercises;

• Strategies for communicating with dance instructors;

• Organization of personal repertoire.

PREREQUISITES

• Proficiency in classical or jazz piano or

• A college or university diploma or

• Previous experience in ballet accompaniment.

Selected candidates will be invited for a short audition and an interview.

Available in person or online, with a flexible schedule, this program is open to pianists from all over the world.

For further information, please contact Elaine Gaertner, Head of Pianists and Music Education at, elaine.gaertner@esbq.ca

LEARN MORE

Youri de Wilde

Manager - Registrar’s office and Student Services youri.dewilde@esbq.ca

Maison de la danse du Québec Ludmilla-Chiriaeff Laurier sortie Saint-Joseph 4816, rue Rivard Montréal (Québec) H2J 2N6 T. 514 849-4929