Watch Big Ballet

Big Ballet is a British reality TV show that aired on Ovation in 2014. The show focuses on a unique concept: assembling a group of plus-sized amateur dancers and training them to perform in a professional ballet production. The idea behind the show is to challenge the conventional stereotype that only slender, petite dancers can perform ballet.

The show is presented by Wayne Sleep, a well-known British dancer, and features two dance coaches, Monica Loughman and Tanya Wade. Monica is a Russian-trained dancer with experience coaching professional ballet dancers, while Tanya is a former professional dancer who now runs a dance academy.

The first episode introduces us to the group of dancers, who range from dress sizes 14 to 26. Many of the dancers are enthusiastic amateurs who have never danced ballet before, while others have some dance experience but have never pursued it seriously. They come from a variety of backgrounds, including a mother of two, a postman, and a bartender.

The training process is grueling and demanding, as the dancers must not only learn new dance techniques but also build up their strength and stamina to perform demanding routines. Monica and Tanya push the dancers to their limits, but also provide support and encouragement along the way.

As the dancers progress in their training, they face various challenges, such as mastering difficult jumps and lifts, and overcoming self-consciousness about their size and appearance. Some of the dancers struggle more than others, and tensions occasionally arise within the group. In one episode, for example, one of the dancers feels left out and excluded from the group dynamic.

Throughout the season, we see glimpses of the dancers' personal lives and how their participation in the show affects them. Some of the dancers become more confident and self-assured, while others struggle with the pressure of performing in front of an audience. Several of the dancers also face health issues related to their weight, such as joint pain and high blood pressure.

The climax of the show is the performance of the ballet production, which takes place in a professional theater in London. The production is choreographed by Monica and Tanya and features the entire group of dancers, as well as professional dancers from the English National Ballet. The performance is emotional and inspiring, both for the dancers and for the audience.

Overall, Big Ballet is a heartwarming and inspiring show that challenges conventional ideas about beauty and ballet. It celebrates diversity and encourages people of all sizes and backgrounds to pursue their dreams, regardless of what others might say. The show is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and teamwork in achieving a common goal.