Female bugs enter in phosphorescent "Tinker bell" green costumes by Santo Loquasto, making very clear that they are in charge. As the male bugs swoon and pursue them, they flounce their sassy hips competing for "fairest of them all." The result is a musically inventive romp, as the mating and dating speeds to frenzy!

The 1987 ballet "Syzygy" followed, with an electronic score by Donald York and shadowy lighting by Jennifer Tipton.

Windmilling arms, explosive leaps that seem to come from nowhere, and whirling turns match the score's energy. The costumes also by Mr. Loquasto add a jolt of color. Cool and interesting, Michael Novak delivers standout dancing. He was missed whenever he left the stage. Laura Halzack and Sean Mahoney danced a vibrant duet and Heather McGinley stood out for her running, sliding and kicking in her duet with Francisco Graciano.

Most impressive of all was the incomparable Michael Trusnovic, dancing with energy emanating from just the right spot. Nothing is wasted and his intelligence is visible in the way every gesture is fully formed, and therefore meaningful. Mr. Trusnovic brings "Syzygy" into 2012 by being completely inside every moment.

"Esplanade" concluded the evening in a stunning performance celebrating the talent of Mr. Taylor and Johann Sebastian Bach. Dancing in pink and coral costumes by John Rawlings the expressive choreography is touching because it is spare. The simplicity of walking and running coexists with arcing spirals, and a family portrait trio where the dancers reach but never touch -- is truly poignant. Amy Young, Eran Bugge, and Parisa Khobdeh use their torsos with passion while Jeffrey Smith dances with obvious joy. Jamie Rae Walker is euphoric and full of delight in each jump, backward roll and soft embrace.

This is a company that continues to grow and develop artistic dancers. EYE ON THE ARTS, NY -- Deborah Wingert