More mature dancers were also seen in new roles at the same performance.

But there is never any doubt that the dazzle here always comes from neo-classical choreography performed by first-rate mature dancers.

"That is why we seek out mature dancers," Mr. Alleyne says.

What do "mature" ballet dancers have that younger, newer performers may not?

Graham's is a technique for mature dancers, as one audience member commented, and there were some balleticisms here.

Like many other mature dancers, she has honed her special qualities to the point of exaggerated refinement.

Ann Richmond, (36), ex-professional dancer, mature and plentiful, let herself go.

Instead they saw a mature dancer who could afford to indulge himself.

But that repertory is danced by a collection of gifted, eloquently mature dancers who are comfortably themselves at this point in their careers.

Now, he gives us the savvy Americanized and mature dancer.