At Christmas, it’s the Nutcracker; in the spring – at least this spring – it was Swan Lake; but now the L.A. Ballet’s ushering out its season, and that’s when the Next Wave hits. This year’s edition of the annual new works showcase got going this past Saturday in Redondo Beach, but any concerned parties should know that there are another four opportunities to see the Ballet’s company members write and stretch, both on and off pointe: this Saturday in Glendale and three times next weekend at the Broad Stage in Santa Monica. This is essentially thrash ballet: loud music, dark costumes, leotards, maybe a strobe light or two. Sweat and mayhem, with which to usher in the calm of a Los Angeles summer. Anyone bring a beach ball? (FULL ARTICLE: Jean Lenihan, Los Angeles Times)