Known for combining salsa, hip-hop and Afro-Cuban dance with urban and contemporary dance theater, Contra-Tiempo Urban Dance Theater gets a mainstage showcase as this venue’s dance season continues to feature L.A.-based dance companies. Founded in 2005 by artistic director Ana Maria Alvarez and resident composer César Alvarez, the diverse ensemble has built a strong following locally for energized works that also convey stories of the working classes.

In 2014, the troupe went international, touring South America as dance ambassadors. Their concern for social justice amid exuberant dancing is captured in this event’s title joyUS justUS set to the music of Las Cafeteras and with collaborative choreography from Alvarez and company members. On Friday, stay for a post-performance artist talk-back.

Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Bram Goldsmith Theater, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills; Fri.-Sat., Jan. 17-18, 7:30 p.m., $29-$79. thewallis.org/CT.

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Contra-Tiempo

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