Big Ballet

Big Ballet is an intriguing performance-based television series from the Ovation network that aired in 2014. The series stands out fundamentally for its unique premise: it breaks the mold of traditional ballet by featuring dancers with larger than typical physiques. This docuseries gives a profound insight into the ephemeral world of ballet, while shattering stereotype and broadening our perception of what a ballet dancer's body ought to be.

At its heart, Big Ballet is also a brilliant amalgam of reality TV and documentary. It begins by assembling a diverse group of ordinary individuals from varying walks of life who share a passionate and undying love for ballet. Their dance aspirations may have been deterred or dashed in the past, largely due to their larger bodies, but this show gives them a rare chance to live their dream, uplift their spirits, and prove to themselves- and the world- that passion transcends the physical.

The series is spearheaded by renowned ballet dancer Wayne Sleep and prima ballerina Monica Loughman. Wayne Sleep himself is known for breaking barriers in ballet, as he holds the record for being the shortest man to have a career as a professional ballet dancer. They both are inspiring mentors who are committed to challenging established norms in ballet and showcasing that artistry and technique do not always equate to a size zero physique. Sleep and Loughman not only cast the performers for changes in perspective but also guide them through an intensive program of training and preparation.

The narrative is built-up right from open auditions till the final show, encompassing rigorous preparation, training, rehearsals, picking up costumes, and finally the performance of one of the world’s best known ballets – Swan Lake. The performances are undoubtedly the highlight of the series, but the journey there is equally captivating. The show inherently carries a deeply inspiring message and the participants' indomitable spirits and persistence are bound to pull the heartstrings of viewers. Their stories, struggles, emotions pack a punch and infuse the classic ballet with realism and human touch.

Over the course of the episodes, we see the dancers grow and evolve, all while facing personal challenges and overcoming their self-doubt and insecurities. Big Ballet also takes a closer look at how people's perceptions, both from within and outside the ballet world, change as the series progresses. Therefore, besides being a show about dance, it's also a commentary on body positivity, acceptance, self-confidence, and the powerful transformation that occurs when one dares to step out of the box.

The series is not without its emotional ups and downs, which are often raw and candid. This emotional journey forms a large aspect of the series, making it much more than a simple reality show and providing it a humane, empathetic angle. The moments of joy and elation at achieving milestones, the anxiety of rigorous training, the heartbreak of injuries, and the euphoria of overcoming obstacles all contribute towards making Big Ballet an emotional roller coaster ride and a testimonial of human resilience.

Big Ballet thus pushes the boundaries of traditional ballet, showcasing that grace, elegance and command over the dance form are not the privilege of a stereotypical ballet body type. As such, it offers a fresh take on ballet, expands the traditional norms, and debunks established paradigms about ballet dancers.

The creators of the show deserve praise for their vision, and the mentors are laudable in their dedication towards their protégés. The series is also aesthetically shot, capturing the finesse of ballet but with a refreshing new perspective. The performances are stunning, the music and choreography splendid and the transformation of the dancers incredibly inspiring.

In conclusion, Big Ballet is a heartwarming, insightful and thoroughly entertaining series, where dance meets determination and dreams meet reality. As the title suggests, it is big on talent, big on dreams, and big on breaking the sterotypes in the beautiful world of ballet. It is a salute to those whose love for dance is bigger than any societal norm and a must-watch for ballet enthusiasts, aspiring dancers, and anyone seeking an uplifting viewing experience.