Pete Tong presents biza Classics

Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics Live at Utilita Arena Birmingham

Prepare to be transported back to the Balearic shores as legendary DJ Pete Tong brings his iconic Ibiza Classics show to the Utilita Arena Birmingham on Thursday, 11th December 2025. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a euphoric celebration of the anthems that defined a generation and continue to ignite dancefloors worldwide. Experience the magic of Ibiza, reimagined with a full orchestra, live vocalists, and the inimitable presence of Pete Tong himself, all within the spectacular setting of Birmingham’s premier entertainment venue. Get ready for a night of unforgettable music, pulsating energy, and pure sonic bliss.

About Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics

Pete Tong is a name synonymous with electronic dance music, a visionary DJ and producer whose career has spanned decades, shaping the global soundscape of house music. For over thirty years, Pete has been a guiding force, not only as the voice of BBC Radio 1’s flagship dance show, “Essential Selection” (later “Evolution”), but also as a tastemaker, A&R guru, and the driving force behind some of the most influential club nights and record labels in history. His discerning ear for talent and his innate ability to connect with audiences have made him a true ambassador for dance music.

Tong’s journey began in the late 1970s, DJing at local parties and developing his skills. He rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a pivotal era for the burgeoning rave scene in the UK. His BBC Radio 1 shows became essential listening for anyone passionate about electronic music, introducing millions to groundbreaking artists and the infectious rhythms of house, techno, and trance. Beyond the airwaves, Pete was instrumental in the development of Ibiza’s legendary status. He was a resident DJ at iconic clubs like Pacha and Amnesia, helping to curate the island’s unique musical identity.

The “Ibiza Classics” concept is Pete Tong’s masterful homage to the music that has soundtracked countless summers and unforgettable moments on the White Isle. This spectacular live show takes the beloved tracks that defined the Ibiza experience – from the euphoric highs of classic anthems to the deeper, more soulful grooves – and elevates them with the power and majesty of a full symphony orchestra. Collaborating with celebrated arrangers and musicians, Tong meticulously reconstructs these seminal tracks, breathing new life into them with lush string arrangements, powerful brass sections, and soaring vocal performances. Hits like Fatboy Slim’s “Right Here, Right Now,” Robert Miles’ “Children,” Energy 52’s “Café Del Mar,” and Faithless’ “Insomnia” are just a taste of the sonic tapestry that will be woven on the night, each track reinterpreted to create an experience that is both nostalgic and exhilaratingly fresh.

Venue Information

The Utilita Arena Birmingham is a state-of-the-art entertainment complex located in the heart of Birmingham city centre. Renowned for its diverse range of world-class events, from major sporting competitions to spectacular music concerts and theatrical productions, the arena boasts a capacity of over 15,000, ensuring an electric atmosphere for every performance. Its cutting-edge acoustics and adaptable seating arrangements provide an optimal viewing and listening experience for all attendees. The venue is easily accessible via public transport, with Birmingham New Street station just a short walk away, and ample parking facilities are available nearby for those travelling by car. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Get ready for an extraordinary journey through the annals of Ibiza’s musical history. Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics at the Utilita Arena Birmingham is a meticulously crafted production designed to deliver an unforgettable sensory experience. The core of the show lies in its unique fusion of Pete Tong’s unparalleled DJ expertise with the breathtaking power of a live orchestra and exceptional vocalists.

The setlist is a carefully curated selection of the most iconic and beloved tracks that have defined the Ibiza sound for decades. Expect to hear anthems that have soundtracked countless sunsets and sunrise sessions, reimagined with lush orchestrations. We’re talking about the tracks that evoke pure euphoria, the ones that have been ingrained in the collective memory of dance music lovers. From the uplifting melodies of tracks that defined the early days of chill-out to the driving beats of anthems that fuelled the golden era of clubbing, the setlist is a masterclass in electronic music history. Imagine the goosebumps as the familiar opening bars of a timeless classic are given a dramatic new lease of life by a full string section, or the sheer power of a choir joining forces with a driving bassline.

Pete Tong’s performance style is legendary for his infectious energy and his ability to connect with his audience on a profound level. While the orchestra and live vocalists will be delivering the sonic spectacle, Pete remains at the heart of the show, guiding the proceedings with his masterful command of the music. He will be seamlessly blending tracks, orchestrating transitions, and interacting with the performers, all while exuding his signature charisma. This isn’t just about playing records; it’s about conducting an entire experience. The synergy between Pete, the orchestra, and the vocalists is palpable, creating moments of pure magic.

The performance is an immersive experience that goes beyond a traditional concert. Expect dazzling lighting designs that mirror the vibrant atmosphere of Ibiza, creating a visual feast that complements the audio. The show is a dynamic journey, building and evolving throughout the evening, taking the audience on an emotional rollercoaster of nostalgia, joy, and unadulterated musical pleasure. The duration of the show will be approximately two hours, including an interval, allowing ample time for the musical narrative to unfold and for the audience to soak in the incredible atmosphere.

FAQs

Q1: Will Pete Tong be DJing throughout the entire show?

Pete Tong is the conductor and curator of the entire Ibiza Classics experience. While he won’t be performing a traditional DJ set for the entire duration, his presence is integral to the show. He will be orchestrating the performance, introducing tracks, interacting with the orchestra and vocalists, and ensuring the seamless flow of the musical journey. His iconic touch is woven throughout the entire production.

Q2: Who are the vocalists performing at the show?

The Ibiza Classics show features a rotating cast of incredibly talented live vocalists, many of whom have performed with Pete Tong on previous tours and are renowned for their powerful performances. Specific vocalists for the Birmingham date will be announced closer to the event, but you can expect artists who are adept at delivering the emotional depth and energy required for these iconic tracks.

Q3: Is this a dance-focused event, or more of a seated concert?

The Utilita Arena Birmingham is a versatile venue, and the setup for Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics is designed to cater to both dancing and seated enjoyment. While there will be dedicated areas for dancing and the atmosphere will undoubtedly encourage movement, a significant portion of the arena will be configured with seating. The overall experience is designed to be engaging for everyone, regardless of whether you choose to dance the night away or enjoy the spectacle from your seat.

Q4: Can I expect to hear specific Ibiza anthems?

Absolutely! The “Ibiza Classics” repertoire is built around the most recognisable and beloved anthems that have defined the Ibiza sound. Tracks like “Children,” “Insomnia,” “Café Del Mar,” “Kernkraft 400,” and many more are staples of the show. The show aims to evoke the spirit of Ibiza through these iconic tracks, and you can be sure that a wealth of unforgettable anthems will be part of the setlist.

Q5: How does the orchestral arrangement differ from the original tracks?

The orchestral arrangements are not simply cover versions; they are ambitious re-imaginings. Renowned arrangers work with Pete Tong to meticulously craft new musical scores for the orchestra, breathing a new level of depth, texture, and grandeur into the electronic music foundations. This involves weaving in sweeping string sections, powerful brass fanfares, intricate woodwind melodies, and a driving percussion section, all while retaining the soul and recognisable elements of the original tracks. The result is a rich, symphonic interpretation that adds a new dimension to the familiar sounds.

Q6: Is the Ibiza Classics show suitable for all ages?

While the music itself is iconic and celebratory, the overall atmosphere and the volume of the performance are geared towards an adult audience who have grown up with and appreciate electronic dance music. The recommended age for this event is generally 16 and over, though this may vary depending on individual venue policies. Please check the Utilita Arena Birmingham’s specific age restrictions for this event.