RECOMMENDED

Watching willowy stems en pointe in Chicago usually means a journey downtown, into the cavernous golden belly of the Auditorium Theatre and the attendant pomp associated with classical dance (including a sizeable ticket price for the sweet seats). Among the few exceptions are performances by Elements Contemporary Ballet, the young Evanston-based company that presents new dance works in the classical vein with impressive technicality and grace. For the next two weekends, the eleven-member company presents an evening-length program in the intimate Ruth Page Center, including a new work by artistic director Mike Gosney and a company premiere by guest choreographer James Gregg from the innovative and sexy BJM Danse Montreal. (Sharon Hoyer)

At the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn (312)337-6543. April 9-10 and 16-17 at 8pm. $20-25.