Few people understand what it takes to build a dancer quite like Guillaume Côté. A former Principal Dancer with the National Ballet of Canada, choreographer, and Artistic Director of Cote Danse, Côté has spent his career at the highest levels of the art form — and he traces much of it back to a single pivotal connection to the École supérieure de ballet du Québec. As a child from Lac-Saint-Jean, he attended a summer program there; a teacher linked to the school later discovered him and set his path in motion. Now, as an ambassador for the ESBQ for the past two years, his involvement is less obligation than homecoming. For Côté, the school represents something bigger than technical training — it’s a place where young people find discipline, resilience, and a reason to care deeply about the world they want to make more beautiful.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
I truly love being involved with the École supérieure de ballet du Québec. For me, it represents everything that is essential about the arts—discipline, passion, and transformation. Supporting the school means supporting young people as they discover not only dance, but a deeper sense of purpose and identity.
What problem does it aim to solve?
The school provides young dancers with access to exceptional training, but beyond that, it answers something more fundamental. It gives young people a place to channel their energy into something meaningful. Dance teaches dedication, resilience, and true grit—it shapes individuals in a profound way.
When did you start/join it?
I’ve been an ambassador for the school for the past two consecutive years.
What made you want to get involved?
My connection to the school goes back to my childhood. I attended a summer program there, and it deeply strengthened my love for dance. It was also through a teacher connected to the school—who came to my hometown of Lac-Saint-Jean—that I was first discovered. That moment changed everything for me. Being involved now feels very personal, almost like giving back to where it all began.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I began my involvement, I already knew the school’s reputation and importance. But being closer to it allowed me to see firsthand the level of commitment, the intensity, and the passion that live within those studios every day.
How has it changed since?
Since I’ve been involved, I’ve watched the students grow to incredible levels. There have been moments where I was almost brought to tears—seeing their dedication and how their love for art becomes a love for the world they want to beautify and improve. It’s deeply moving.
What more needs to be done?
I can’t stress enough how important a school like ESBQ is—not just for Quebec, but for Canada. It gives wings to so many young people with passion. But it takes a village to build an artist. Continued support—financial, institutional, and cultural—is essential to ensure these opportunities remain accessible.
How can our readers help?
People can support by donating, attending performances, and spreading the word. But also by valuing the arts in a broader sense—encouraging young people to pursue their passions and recognizing the importance of artistic education.
Do you have any events coming up?
The school presents performances and showcases throughout the year, which are a beautiful way to witness the students’ growth and talent. I encourage everyone to follow their official channels to stay informed.
Where can we follow you?
Guillaume Côté | École supérieure de ballet duo Québec
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
A charity that is very close to my heart is Campfire Circle. Their work supporting children with serious illnesses and their families is incredibly meaningful and inspiring.
