Les Ballets du Trockadero de Monte Carlo Play the Byham Theater, 4/5

The Pittsburgh Dance Council, a division of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, brings you the legendary dance company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo Friday, April 5, 2013 at the Byham Theater at 8:00 p.m.

Who knew testosterone and tutus could combine to create a comical and methodical critique of dance? Over thirty-five years ago in hopes of incorporating some entertainment and excitement into the dance world, these New York men grabbed their Pointe ballet slippers and went to work.
Men from all over the world make up this diverse Russian-style ballet company, and each of them has donned a clever female alias as their stage persona. The men dance parodies of classic ballets as well as more modern compositions; creating a satire on the rigid standards that serious dancers are being held to.

"The Trocks," as they have affectionately become known, have been winning over audiences with their charismatic shows from the beginning. Stemming from recognition in publications The Trocks have performed venues internationally, at dance festivals, on television shows, they have even been the subject of several television specials and documentaries. Comedy creates happiness, and the comedy created by The Trocks transcends culture, age, and even knowledge of dance.

Bringing ballet to new and diverse audiences, "The Trocks are a guaranteed hoot for people who know nothing of ballet and an absolute must for those who think they know the originals," according to theSydney Star Observer. Whether you are a dance aficionado or just looking to try something new Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo is winning over international audiences one misstep at a time. Some of the acclaim that The Trocks have gained are best classical repertoire from the prestigious Critic's Circle National Dance Awards (2007) (UK), the Theatrical Managers Award (2006) (UK) and the 2007 Positano Award (Italy) for excellence in dance.

Tickets ($19-$48) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at www.trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. For a subscription to the 2013 Dance Council season call (412) 456-1390 or subscribe online at www.trustarts.org/dance.