Name: Ballet BC Is Kicking Off Its 40th Anniversary Season With A Breathtaking New Show
Start: 2026-11-05T00:00:00-07:00
End: 2026-11-07T23:59:59-07:00
Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Vancouver is about to experience something extraordinary as one of Canada’s most celebrated contemporary dance companies returns to the stage for a landmark season.

From November 5 to 7, Ballet BC is bringing its highly anticipated Bodies & Voices production to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, marking the beginning of the company’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Featuring two spectacular works by acclaimed Dutch sibling choreographers Imre and Marne van Opstal, the program promises an unforgettable combination of powerful movement, live vocals, and world-class artistry.

And the best part? Tickets start at just $19, making this an accessible opportunity to experience some of the world’s best contemporary dance right here in Vancouver.

Wondering what makes this performance so special? Here’s everything you need to know.

Ballet BC Presents: Bodies & Voices

Two Incredible Premieres, One Unforgettable Experience

This year’s season opener brings something truly special to Vancouver audiences: a North American premiere and a brand-new world premiere, both created by internationally renowned choreographers Imre and Marne van Opstal.

The first work, I’m afraid to forget your smile, explores the deeply human experiences of memory, emotion, and loss through an emotionally charged performance featuring six dancers.

What makes it particularly unique is the addition of 16 live vocalists from the Vancouver Chamber Choir, bringing together powerful choreography and haunting vocals for an immersive theatrical experience.

Meanwhile, the world premiere of Miriam takes audiences on an entirely different journey.

Created specifically for Ballet BC, this new work features the company’s full ensemble and an original musical composition by Amos Ben-Tal.

Exploring themes of life, human connection, and creation, the performance promises bold choreography, striking imagery, and an experience that pushes the boundaries of contemporary dance.

Together, these two works explore the beauty, vulnerability, and complexity of the human experience.

Celebrating 40 Years Of World-Class Dance

It’s not every day that a Vancouver arts institution celebrates four decades of creativity, and Ballet BC is making sure this milestone is one to remember.

Over the years, the company has built an incredible international reputation, showcasing contemporary dance talent on stages around the world.

Its ensemble of 22 dancers brings together exceptional artists from countries including Italy, Taiwan, Costa Rica, the United States, and Canada.

The company’s global reach even extends beyond traditional performances. Ballet BC’s dancers recently participated in a dance film created for Céline Dion’s Paris performances.

And while their artistry has reached international audiences, Vancouverites have the opportunity to experience it all without ever leaving the city.

The 40th anniversary season also marks a significant chapter for Ballet BC, as it will be the final season curated by Artistic Director Medhi Walerski before his departure in June 2027.

The Highlights

Looking for a quick rundown of what makes Bodies & Voices worth seeing? Here are some of the biggest highlights:

Ballet BC’s milestone 40th anniversary season opener
Two major premieres from acclaimed choreographers Imre and Marne van Opstal
The North American premiere of I’m afraid to forget your smile
The world premiere of Miriam, created specifically for Ballet BC
Live vocals from 16 members of the Vancouver Chamber Choir
A world-class ensemble featuring 22 international dancers
Tickets starting at just $19
A Saturday afternoon matinee
Artist talks included with your ticket
Special offers at participating downtown Vancouver restaurants

With just four performances scheduled, this is a limited opportunity to experience the company’s latest creations on its home stage.

Whether you’re planning a date night, looking for something different to do in Vancouver, or simply want to experience the magic of live performance, Bodies & Voices is a celebration worth checking out.