ARTS . Arts Picks

Pennsylvania Ballet

Wed.-Sun., April 25-29, Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.


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Published: Apr 17, 2007

dance

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"Modern" is a relative term in regard to Pennsylvania Ballet's Modern Masters program, which includes works created between 1986 and 1998. The dance world saw a heck of a lot of change in those years, some of it instigated by Twyla Tharp's In the Upper Room. This energetic piece, performed to music by Philip Glass, has two "sides" — one in ballet shoes and the other in sneakers, going at it toe to toe in a vigorous workout that unspools patterns of various shapes and textures. It's an iconic work that exemplifies Tharp's signature ability to wed classical and jazzy street styles into a vibrant pastiche. Kevin O'Day's Quartet for IV (and sometimes one, two, or three ... ) presents an ode to pure movement, in which two pairs of dancers playfully set themselves in sundry configurations while showcasing exquisite athletic prowess. O'Day's piece is familiar and popular with PAB fans. Meanwhile, for something new, there's Val Caniparoli's Lambarena, which blends music by Bach and traditional African rhythms for a worldly, festive movement celebration.

Wed.-Sun., April 25-29, $20-$79, Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St., 215-336-2000, www.paballet.org.