From ESBQ to Les Grands Ballets: Laure Billeau begins her professional career

The École supérieure de ballet du Québec (ESBQ) is proud to announce that Laure Billeau, graduating class of 2026, has been hired by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens (GBC) as an apprentice. The 19-year-old began her new position on January 19, 2026.

Affiliated with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, the École supérieure is the only arts training institution in Quebec capable of continuously meeting the needs of this leading company by preparing performers whose profiles match the requirements of the repertoire and the profession. Today, ESBQ graduates represent more than one-third of CBC's dance performers, a concrete reflection of this partnership and the professional springboard our institution has been offering for 60 years.

Throughout her time at ESBQ, Laure received support from the ESBQ Foundation in the form of a scholarship. The generosity of donors helped give her the means to continue her training and progress step by step toward her professional goal, until she achieved her greatest dream.

"I entered the École supérieure de ballet du Québec at the age of 12 with the simple desire to live my passion every day. Over the years, I had the opportunity to flourish alongside influential figures who shaped the dancer and person I am today. Seven years later, I have the immense privilege of joining Les Grands Ballets Canadiens as an apprentice. This milestone would never have been possible without the support of the School, which now allows me to take my first steps into the professional world with confidence and gratitude."

Do you recognize her? Laure Billeau is the dancer pictured on this year's large banner displayed in the storefront, carried by Léo Lussier (class of 2026).

© Sasha Onyshchenko