Relatively recent arrivals on the local dance scene, choreographer Sarah Harkness and her invigorating troupe have drawn increasing attention for their contemporary renderings of classic tales. Her 2005 Elle reconsidered ballet’s Giselle, and last year’s Midsummer Night’s Dream gave a new reading to Shakespeare with a blend of ballet, contemporary and even a bit of tap employed along the way. Harkness consistently demonstrates great skill in maneuvering her ensembles and providing moves that match the abilities of the dancers. The ensemble greets the new year with Cinderella, another classic retold, with Brenda Stevens in the title role. Stella Adler Theater, 6773 Hollywood Blvd., Second Floor, Hlywd.; Fri.-Sat., Jan. 19-20 & 26-27, 8 p.m.; Sun., Jan. 21 & 28, 2 p.m.; $20, $15 students, seniors & children under 12 years. (310) 838-2236 or www.mehtropolis.com.

—Ann Haskins

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