World-class ballet technique meets laugh-out-loud comedy
At Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo delivered a performance
that was as technically impressive as it was entertaining; a rare balance that few companies
manage to sustain across an entire mixed bill. Beneath the humour and theatrical
exaggeration was a level of classical ballet technique that was exceptional, making the
comedy land even harder because of how skillfully the dancing itself was executed.
The dancers’ lines throughout the evening were beautiful, with remarkably clean extensions,
elegant port de bras and an overall precision that never slipped even during the most chaotic
comedic moments. What stood out most was the sheer quality of the footwork on pointe. The
speed and control across the company were incredibly impressive, particularly during the
turns. Whether it was fouettés, pirouettes or Italian fouettés, the dancers executed them with
confidence and consistency.
The choreography itself was one of the highlights of the evening. Rather than simply
parodying classical ballet, the programme celebrated it while cleverly weaving in absurdity
and physical comedy. The works constantly played with audience expectations, moving
between moments of genuine elegance and complete comedic collapse. The execution of
the humour was especially strong; every fall, exaggerated reaction, strange sound effect and
deliberate break of the fourth wall felt perfectly timed. The dancers were enormously
charismatic and clearly understood how to engage the audience without sacrificing the
integrity of the choreography itself.
Among several standout performances, Jake Speakman as Odette in Swan Lake was
unforgettable. His performance managed to be both technically refined and outrageously
funny, capturing exactly what makes the company so unique. Equally memorable was
Takaomi Yoshino in Paquita, whose commanding stage presence and beautiful fouettés
brought the programme to a brilliant close.
What makes the Trocks so compelling is that the comedy never feels like a gimmick layered
on top of ballet. Instead, the humour emerges from a deep understanding and appreciation
of the art form itself. The result is a performance that appeals equally to seasoned ballet
audiences and newcomers alike.