The work of some of the biggest names in dance history is on display when Boston Ballet brings its season-ending repertory production, Thrill of Contact (refer to listing, page 17), to the stage at the Boston Opera House May 14–24. The program begins with Theme and Variations, a piece by ballet giant George Balanchine set to the music of Tchaikovsky. Next up is the comic parody The Concert by classic Broadway choreographer Jerome Robbins. Moving more into the modern era, William Forsythe’s 1996 masterpiece The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude presents a display of power and precision. Those seeking something even newer need look no further than the final dance. Created by Boston Ballet principal dancer Jeffrey Cirio, the world premiere of fremd—set to music ranging from Aphex Twin to Chopin—closes out what is sure to be a stimulating program of movement and sound.

image: Sharen Bradford