Interview: Robert Carter of the Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

When did you start dancing?
I started at age seven-and-a-half at the Robert Ivey Ballet School in Charleston, South Carolina. I attended pointe classes (usually only done by female dancers) three times a week in addition to my regular sessions. The Trocks were always an ambition.
How different is it dancing male and female parts?
With the male role, there is a looser freer movement and the ease and comfort of being in a flat slipper. But I like the challenge and silent strength required for female movements, especially when combined with my masculine strength.
Humor is a big part of the show. Do you have a background in comedy?
I don’t but I have a great sense of humor and was always considered the class clown.
What’s it like getting into those tutus?
Putting on a tutu is a lifting experience, literally. Ours are made to accommodate our male figures but they do the same as they would for women.
Have you ever had any kind of wardrobe malfunction?
I’ve had experience with my strap breaking or skirt snagging but my most memorable (and embarrassing) moments have been the few times I lost my wig.
How do you deal with injury, pain and strain?
Eight hours of sleep every night, a good diet, lots of ice, heat and sometimes ibuprofen.
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo is on through May 5 at the Esplanade Theatre.