Some people may not know what to expect when the all-male ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo chassés onto The Lincoln Center stage on January 24. Is it a comedy? Is it a traditional ballet? The answer – it’s both amazingly exquisite dance and it’s a rollickin’ fun time!
Presenting playful yet reverent renditions of traditional, classical ballet in parody form and en travesti (as women), the Trockaderos are widely hailed for their impeccable comic timing and astounding ability to dance en pointe.
Although “The Trocks” have been a popular returning troupe over the years, that doesn’t mean you’ll see the same show when they storm our stage once again.
“The company is always changing,” says Carlos Hopuy, a principal dancer that portrays both Alla Snizova and Innokenti Smoktumuchsky. “Many companies have a similar repertoire, but we bring a different concept to it.” The Trocks are different not only because they are an all-male ballet company, but because each dancer plays two roles: a male and a female.
For Hopuy, who formally performed with the National Ballet of Cuba, National Ballet of Costa Rica, and Ballet San Antonio, joining the Trockaderos was a dream. “I love being able to dance every role,” he says.
When asked how long it takes to put on makeup now that he’s a Trock, he quips, “About 35 minutes. When I was in more traditional ballet, it only took ten.”
The community is in for even more of a treat at The Trocks will be presenting a Master Class at CSU thanks to financial support from the Lincoln Center Support League. The classes are open to everyone, regardless of dance experience. “The students should be very excited because they will see a very different environment than a traditional ballet master class. They will have a lot of fun even as they learn,” says Hopuy. “ Plus, even guys can do point shoe work if they want!”
Don’t miss Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo January 24th! Tickets are limited and start at $15 at LCtix.com.