About

Our Story

BIG Live was founded on a singular, ambitious vision: to make the transformative power of ballet accessible, thrilling, and relevant for audiences worldwide.

Frustrated by the limited and unstable career pathways for talented ballet artists, Co-founders Joel Burke and Khalid Tarabay created BIG Live as a platform to secure stable, long-term employment for performers. We believe that artistic excellence can be commercially viable—and we prove it. Operating entirely without government funding, BIG Live has become the fastest-growing and one of the highest-selling ballet companies in the Southern Hemisphere.

From the most prestigious stages in the Southern Hemisphere to emerging markets in Asia and the UK, we are committed to bringing world-class ballet directly to your community.

Our Mission

Our mission is to challenge public perception of ballet by presenting work that is powerful, authentic, and spectacularly entertaining. We blend the elegance of classical tradition with the bold energy of modern theatre to captivate contemporary audiences.

The BIG Live Difference

Iconic Productions

We reimagine timeless stories with a focus on dramatic storytelling. Our repertoire spans from the festive magic of The Nutcracker to the high-impact romance of Romeo and Juliet, the dark drama of Dracula, and the glamour of The Great Gatsby. Critics praise our productions for their “lavish and extravagant” quality and “dramatic movement” that makes the story feel fresh and emotionally resonant.

Breaking Boundaries

We deliver an experience that draws people “beyond the usual circle” of ballet audiences. Our renowned Ballet International Gala (BIG) often culminates in a thrilling, rock concert-styled finale, showcasing the virtuosity of our dancers and our commitment to an unforgettable night out.

World-Class Talent

Every BIG Live production features some of ballet’s greatest ever names, alongside internationally acclaimed guest artists from the world’s leading companies. Our dedicated team of performers, selected for their technical mastery, emotional depth, and high-impact stage presence, ensure every role is a showcase of artistic excellence.

Contact & Touring Information

We are committed to sharing the power of live dance with as many people as possible.

For media requests, or general information about BIG Live, please contact us:

Email: contact@bigliveco.com

To see when we are coming to your city, visit our Performances page or sign up for our newsletter to receive tour announcements and ticket alerts.