L.A. gets its first good look at The Joffrey Ballet under its new artistic director, Ashley Wheater, a Joffrey alum who returned in 2007 to assume the helm occupied for 50 years by company founder Robert Joffrey (co-founder and principal choreographer Gerald Arpino took over after Joffrey's death in 1988). The calling card this visit is the late British choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton's full-length Cinderella. The choice reflects both the company and Wheater's histories: her Scottish roots and training with the Royal Ballet, where Ashton created the ballet and famously filled the shoes of one of the stepsisters, parts that continue to be danced hilariously by men. Although the Joffrey was among the first American companies permitted Ashton's ballets, the company only acquired Cinderella in 2006. Press reports suggest Wheater's arrival has re-energized this company, which, despite its venerable age, has always been known for its youthful vigor.

Jan. 28-30, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 30-31, 2 p.m., 2010

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