Like its namesake Italian pasta and pizza dishes that layer four cheeses into an entity that respects the value of each component but strives for an exponential result greater than the arithmetic total, the secret to success rests in the quality of the individual ingredients. In the case of this aptly named dance concert, the four dancer/choreographers have distinguished themselves as part of the highly respected Rudy Perez Performance Ensemble as well as in their own right. Anne and Jeff Grimaldo are also known under the arresting moniker Naked With Shoes; here they offer Common Side Effects, with guest musicians Mrs. Hobbs and Quentin Joseph. Stefan Fabry is known for his improvisational explorations, this time it’s 1% Rot, with guest dancer/visual artist Yicun Sun. Today’s headlines provide grist for Vox Dance Theatre’s Sarah Swenson in her new solo, Pavane for an Iraqi Girl. Swenson also offers Civilization, with background text recorded by her grandfather. A bracing antidote in this season of sweets. Highways Performance Space, 1651 18th St., Santa Monica; Fri.-Sat., Dec. 14-15, 8:30 p.m.; $20, $15 students & seniors. (310) 315-1459 or www.highwaysperformance.org.

—Ann Haskins

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