The Joffrey closes their season on a Romantic note—the capital R specifically pointing to Edwaard Liang’s “Age of Innocence” and Jerome Robbins’ “In the Night.” Both pieces are favorite Joffrey standbys: the former a lush ensemble piece inspired by Jane Austen, in which white-clad dancers play out formal, yet passionate courtships before three red velvet curtains; the latter a series of duets depicting three different romantic dynamics. The surprise will come from Val Caniparoli, whose world premiere “Incantations” is inspired by devotional rituals of a higher ilk. Caniparoli frequently pulls from other dance forms, infusing his ballets with rhythms, spinal movements and weightedness found in modern, social and African dance. “Incantations” is distinguished by constant spiraling, reminiscent of Sufi Whirling Dervishes and inspired by mysticism and prayer. (Sharon Hoyer)
At the Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Congress, (312)386-8905. April 25–May 6. $25-149.
