My name is Fiona Richardson, and I am the Artistic Director of the globally recognised ‘The Big Dance Company’. I began this journey over twenty years ago in Goldsithney, a small village near Penzance, Cornwall, as a new beginning for my son and me after escaping a life of domestic abuse. Surviving such a experience at a young age has filled me with gratitude and empathy, motivating me to help young people reach their full potential. I strive to instill core values, life skills, self-belief, personal development, and the ability to appreciate the beauty in themselves and others.

With a handful of wonderful students from St Hilary School, whose children now train at The Big Dance Company, I founded the Fiona Richardson School of Dance. Together with my dancers and a supportive community of dance families, we began attending competitions and creating our own fundraising events. Our journey took a significant turn when we reached the live semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2008 with my group ‘Flava’, which propelled our studio into a full-time venture. Led by my son Kyle Richardson, we a platform to pursue our passion for using dance to transform lives, make a difference in the community, and engage in educational international outreach projects.

The Big Dance Company, a family-run local business established by myself, my husband Ben, and our son Kyle, is dedicated to offering BIG dreams and opportunities to individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Our studio has performed in twelve different countries and holds titles in National, European, and World Championships for Cornwall. We have received numerous honors, including the Pride of Penwith, of the Year awards, Woman of the Year finalist, the Unlocking Human Potential award, and Honorary Philip Lawrence Award presented by Sir Trevor McDonald for our anti-bullying initiative. Furthermore, we were privileged to be invited to an intimate lunch with HM Queen Elizabeth II, among many other incredible recognitions, placing Cornwall on the map for international arts and dance.