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Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, the all-male comedy ballet company, are bringing their latest production to the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury

05:00, 11 September 2022

Enjoy a night at the theatre like no other as a unique all-male ballet company dances into town.

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo will be bringing their fabulous, fun-filled production to the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, on Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 September.

The all-male New York ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo is coming to the Marlowe Theatre. Picture: Zoran Jelenic
The all-male New York ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo is coming to the Marlowe Theatre. Picture: Zoran Jelenic

The Trocks, founded in 1974, are known for their hilarious spoofs of classic ballet pieces such as Swan Lake and Raymonda’s Wedding, all performed with impeccable dance talent by the company’s 16 dancers.

“It’s comedy, it’s funny and people enjoy themselves,” says dancer Giovanni Goffredo. “They come out to have a good time and a laugh but also to watch high-level classical dancing. We are all trained in the most prestigious schools all over the world.”

During the show, the performers will play both male and female roles. Due to this tradition, the company has been cited for their influence on drag culture over the years.

“Trockadero is one of a kind,” says the 29-year-old. “In countries all over the world drag is something very special and that is what makes this show unique and wonderful - bringing something different to people, bringing classical ballet with a twist.”

The company has 16 dancers, all of whom are classically trained performers. Picture: Zoran Jelenic
The company has 16 dancers, all of whom are classically trained performers. Picture: Zoran Jelenic

Better known as Gianni, the Italian-born dancer joined the company in 2013, but took a short break from The Trocks to pursue other ventures in 2017.

During this time, he and his partner Matthew featured in the relationship counselling programme Couples Therapy. Filmed largely during lockdown in 2020 and aired in the UK in 2021, the couple shared their difficulties with clinical psychologist Dr Orna Guralnik.

Gianni returned to the company in 2021 and is now touring the country as part of the latest production.

“It’s been wonderful being back to travelling internationally again,” he says. “I’m also excited because I’m getting the chance to dance roles that I haven’t performed before. I’m dancing the lead role in Vivaldi Suite, which is a beautiful ballet.”

Audiences get the chance to see classic ballet pieces with a comedy twist. Picture: Zoran Jelenic
Audiences get the chance to see classic ballet pieces with a comedy twist. Picture: Zoran Jelenic

For those who might not be familiar with or fans of traditional ballet, these comical productions offer a unique twist on timeless tales and music.

“On this tour, you’ll get the famous second act of Swan Lake, a surprise pas de deux or perhaps a modern work,” reveals Gianni. “Then there's the Vivaldi Suite inspired by Balanchine and finally the wedding scene from Raymonda which I think is a masterpiece!”

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo will be at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, on Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 September.

Book tickets online here or call 01227 787787.

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