BRAVE NEW BALLET

The inspiring history of a group of men who were determined to dance and live with the freedom to be themselves!

In the 1970s, an all-male ballet company called Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo was formed in New York City—but the dancers did not play only traditional male roles on stage. Instead, “The Trocks” dressed in tutus and wigs. They danced in both male and female roles. Their practices and performances were precise and serious, but the dancers brought joy, comedy, and whimsy to the stage! With determination, hard work, and a desire to create an all-inclusive and empowering LGBTQ+ community, Les Ballets Trockadero is a global sensation today, and its international cast of dancers perform sold-out shows worldwide. They celebrated their fiftieth aniversary in 2024.

Brave New Ballet educates young readers about the true story of dancers who dreamed of performing as their truest selves. With delighful illustrations by Alexander Mostov, this nonfiction story leaps, jetés, and pirouettes across the pages with a dedication to an inclusive vision.

Robyn McGrath is the author of the picture books A Mind of Her Own: The Story of Mystery Writer Agatha Christie (2024), There's Always Room for One More (2023), and Dolly!: The Story of Dolly Parton and Her Big Dream (2022).

Alexander Mostov is an illustrator who takes pride in making playful, accessible pictures. His inspiration is drawn from plants, animals, and mid-century modern design. He lives in Seattle with lots of books and a mischievous little dog named Dziga.