Drummondville, Quebec is set to host a vibrant celebration of international dance as Bravissimo, one of North America’s largest multidisciplinary dance competitions, returns to the city from March 12th to 15th. Founded in 2010 by Véronique D’Abaté and Isabelle Bélanger, Bravissimo has grown from a local initiative into a globally recognized event, attracting thousands of dancers and enthusiasts from Canada, France, and beyond. The competition showcases a diverse range of dance styles, from classical ballet and contemporary to hip-hop and jazz, offering a platform for performers of all ages and skill levels to compete and showcase their talent.
What began as a response to a gap in the Quebec dance competition landscape has blossomed into a significant cultural event. D’Abaté and Bélanger, both experienced dancers themselves, identified a need for a high-caliber competition that would elevate standards and provide a professional environment for dancers to thrive. Their vision, initially funded entirely from personal savings, has resonated with the dance community, establishing Bravissimo as a key event on the annual calendar for aspiring and established dancers alike. The competition’s success is a testament to their dedication and a growing passion for dance across North America and Europe.
Bravissimo isn’t just a competition; it’s a celebration of artistry and a catalyst for growth within the dance community. Each year, the event welcomes renowned choreographers and artists who provide workshops, mentorship, and judging expertise. With over 3,500 dancers participating in each edition, Bravissimo stands out as a major force in the dance world, and uniquely, as the only Quebec-based competition to host events outside of Canada. The event’s impact extends beyond the stage, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among dance schools and performers.
From Humble Beginnings to International Stage
The story of Bravissimo is rooted in the shared experiences of its founders, Véronique D’Abaté and Isabelle Bélanger. Recognizing a lack of structured, high-level dance competitions in Quebec during their own competitive years, they envisioned an event that would fill this void. “There weren’t many dance competitions in Quebec 13 years ago,” explained Isabelle Bélanger, as reported by Le Journal Express. Within ten months of conceptualization, their idea transformed into reality with the inaugural competition, financed entirely through personal funds without relying on sponsorships or grants.
Isabelle Bélanger’s entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of École de danse 360 in Mascouche nearly 30 years ago, a business she continues to own and operate alongside the building that houses it. Her long-standing commitment to dance education and business acumen laid a strong foundation for Bravissimo’s success. Véronique D’Abaté, meanwhile, pursued a professional dance career that took her to New York City in her twenties. She participated in numerous productions and continues to share her expertise through workshops and performances, including appearances on popular Quebec television shows such as Chanteurs masqués (Masked Singers), La Voix (The Voice), and En direct de l’univers (Live from the Universe).
A Diverse Showcase of Dance Disciplines
Bravissimo distinguishes itself through its inclusive approach to dance styles. The competition encompasses a wide spectrum of disciplines, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, lyrical, freestyle, and hip-hop. This diversity allows dancers to showcase their versatility and explore different artistic expressions. The event likewise features various age categories and skill levels, ensuring a welcoming environment for both emerging talents and seasoned professionals. Competitors vie for significant prize money, further incentivizing excellence and innovation within the dance community.
The competition’s reach extends beyond Canada, with events held annually in Paris, La Grande-Motte, France, and Terrebonne, in addition to the Quebec stops in Drummondville. This international presence underscores Bravissimo’s growing reputation and its commitment to fostering a global network of dancers and choreographers. The 2026 schedule includes events in La Grande-Motte, France (February 26th – March 1st), Drummondville (March 12th – 15th), Terrebonne (April 9th – 12th), and Paris (May 30th – 31st). These events collectively attract tens of thousands of participants and spectators, solidifying Bravissimo’s position as a leading force in the dance world.
Local Talent Shines at Drummondville
The Drummondville leg of the Bravissimo tour is expected to draw significant participation from local dance schools, including Team ÉviDanse. Schools from the MRC de Drummond and the surrounding region will have the opportunity to showcase their talent on a challenging and inspiring stage. The event promises a high-caliber spectacle, reflecting both the dedication of the Bravissimo organization and the skill of the participating dancers. Team ÉviDanse, in particular, has consistently demonstrated excellence in previous competitions, earning accolades for its team and duo performances.
Students from Collège Saint-Bernard, under the guidance of Mme Tousignant and M. Moirissette, are also anticipated to deliver captivating individual and group performances. Their participation highlights the growing emphasis on dance education within the region’s academic institutions. The competition provides a valuable platform for these students to hone their skills, gain experience, and connect with other dancers from across the country and internationally.
The Impact of Bravissimo on the Quebec Dance Scene
Bravissimo’s influence extends beyond the competition itself. The organization actively supports the dance community by providing opportunities for professional development, networking, and artistic collaboration. By hosting events both within Quebec and internationally, Bravissimo contributes to the province’s cultural vibrancy and promotes its dance talent on a global scale. The competition’s success has also inspired other organizations to invest in dance education and performance opportunities, further strengthening the Quebec dance ecosystem.
The founders’ commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment has been instrumental in Bravissimo’s success. They emphasize the importance of fostering a sense of community among dance schools and encouraging collaboration rather than competition. This approach has resonated with dancers and educators alike, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the stage. As Véronique D’Abaté explained, “There’s a friendly and festive atmosphere at Bravissimo. Dance is a challenging field, but we make sure that schools are in contact and can exchange ideas,” according to Le Journal Express.
Bravissimo’s continued growth and expansion demonstrate the enduring appeal of dance as an art form and the power of entrepreneurial vision. The competition’s commitment to inclusivity, artistic excellence, and community building positions it as a vital force in the dance world for years to come. The next major event on the Bravissimo calendar is the competition in La Grande-Motte, France, from February 26th to March 1st, 2026, offering dance enthusiasts another opportunity to witness the talent and passion that define this exceptional event.
As Bravissimo prepares to electrify Drummondville once again, the dance community eagerly anticipates a weekend filled with breathtaking performances, inspiring workshops, and a celebration of the art form. The event promises to be a highlight of the cultural calendar, showcasing the best of Canadian and international dance talent. We encourage readers to share their experiences and thoughts on Bravissimo in the comments below and to follow the organization’s social media channels for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.