Jewels

Certain works have become milestones in the ballet repertory—a test of maturity for the company doing them. Previously the 19th-century classics like Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty served this function, but George Balanchine’s 1967 neo-classic Jewels (through Feb. 7) is shaping up to be their contemporary equivalent. It’s trio of ballets very loosely inspired by precious gems (thus “Emeralds,” “Rubies,” and “Diamonds”), with a multitude of showcase roles for the entire ensemble. A company does Jewels, in part, to prove that it can. And Pacific Northwest Ballet most definitely can. Try to catch a performance with Louise Nadeau in the “Emeralds” section—her individual style meshes brilliantly with the ornate arm gestures that fill this ballet. Nadeau is retiring at the end of this season, so see her while she’s still here. SANDRA KURTZ [See Kurtz’ review here.] 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Feb. 7.

Thursdays-Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Jan. 31, 2 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 1, 1 p.m. Starts: Jan. 29. Continues through Feb. 7, 2009