Support My Career Leap in Dance—Help Me Get to NYC

Hi, I'm Nickolas Branco—a jazz dancer, choreographer, and movement director based in Montréal.

Dance has played a central role in my life for as long as I can remember. I've spent my entire life sharpening my skills, refining my technique, and immersing myself in various styles. It's been a lifelong pursuit of growth, discipline, and expression.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working professionally and gained valuable experience. However, despite all that, the opportunities in Montréal, particularly for jazz dancers, remain inconsistent. While the city has a vibrant dance scene, jazz dance at the professional level is limited compared to hubs like New York or London. My path forward in this style feels narrow, making it difficult to find consistent, long-term opportunities to grow as a jazz artist.

That’s why I’m beyond excited to have been invited to the Verdon Fosse Legacy Professional Training Program in New York City. This remarkable six-week experience will allow me to dive into Bob Fosse’s legendary choreography, explore his innovative style in depth, and gain access to resources and mentorship that simply don’t exist in Montréal.

Why This Means So Much

If you’ve ever seen Chicago, Cabaret, or Sweet Charity, you’ve experienced the sharp, expressive, and emotionally charged movement that defines Bob Fosse’s genius. His style completely transformed how I dance, and now I have the opportunity to learn directly from the artists preserving his legacy.

Even more meaningful: Nicole Fosse, Bob Fosse’s daughter and the guardian of his creative archive, personally awarded me a partial scholarship after seeing my work. Her belief in me is among the most humbling recognitions I’ve ever received.

Why I Need Your Help

This program is a dream—but an expensive one.

Total cost: $14,000 CAD (after exchange rate)

What I still need to cover: $12,000 CAD

That said, I’ve decided to set my fundraising goal at $8,000.

I’m doing everything I can to cover the rest myself—through side work, careful budgeting, and planning—while still keeping up with my regular bills.

Your support will help cover:

- Remaining tuition/program fees

- Dancewear and materials required for the program

- Housing in Manhattan

- Meals and daily essentials

What This Will Make Possible

This isn’t just training—it’s a career advancement opportunity.

Every Bit Helps

Any donation—big or small—makes a real difference.

Even if you’re not in a position to give, sharing this campaign with your network or sending a few words of encouragement means the world to me.

Thank you for supporting dancers, for believing in the arts, and for helping me get one step closer to living my dream.

With love and deep gratitude,

Nickolas Branco