BOYS DANCE!
From the American Ballet Theatre series
by John Robert Allman ; illustrated by Luciano Lozano
Boys at the American Ballet Theatre school practice, observe, and show off their ballet skills.
A multiracial group of young male students attends class, where they stretch at the barre, demonstrate the five basic positions, and land jumps with “flair” during floor routines. In one double-page spread, they are showcased artfully imitating current ABT dancers seen on posters behind them. Another colorful scene shows men in various costumes from classic ballets executing steps onstage. Still another visually powerful spread shows the boys duplicating moves from famous dancers of other genres, including Savion Glover, Paul Taylor, Bob Fosse, Gregory Hines, and Gene Kelly. Finally, and making a strong statement, the boys are depicted reading and playing the violin, basketball, and tennis while using ballet techniques. Related in rhyming couplets, this is a happy and spirited view of dance in the studio, onstage, and in everyday life. In an afterword, current male dancers briefly describe why they dance. Each is accompanied by two photographs, one from childhood and one in performance. Children of all genders who are drawn to dance will appreciate the positive reinforcement. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10-by-20-inch double-page spreads viewed at 27.5% of actual size.)
Boys and ballet—a happy and upbeat combo.
(Picture book. 5-8)