A "greatest hits" program can be frustrating from a choreographic point of view, since, absent their contexts, dance sections can also be stripped of their significance. But National Theater Ballet Director Petr Zuzka has created this third annual gala with the primary focus on the dancers.

"The gala, which is also called 'Rendezvous in Prague,' is an exhibition of the virtuosity of Czech dancers employed abroad, or other dancers who have some special relationship to Prague's National Theater Ballet," Zuzka says. "It is an opportunity for the dancers to present themselves in masterpieces of repertory from the company where they are engaged, or in their own choreographic works."

For audiences, the event offers an opportunity to see the latest developments abroad and to compare the skill of visiting dancers with those who have remained in or returned to the Czech Republic. "Our intention is to keep in touch with the Czech dancers who have moved abroad, because they can transmit elements of their development and experiences back into Prague," says Zuzka. "This is very productive, both for audiences and those working backstage."

It's also a valuable, practical move for the continued progression of dance in the Czech Republic, reflecting Zuzka's determination and ongoing efforts to update and promote Czech dance.

One visiting dancer worthy of note is Daria Klimentová (shown at right), who is a principal dancer at the English National Ballet in London, where she is considered one of the company's most expressive and intelligent performers. Never the "ballet doll" — simply hitting all the right shapes with a smiling face on the top — she emanates mature balletic form through every limb, and has rightfully captivated London audiences for many years.

In the gala, Klimentová will perform a highlight from The Sleeping Beauty by Kenneth MacMillan, whose sophisticated choreography is dramatic and emotional. This in itself should be a treat for Prague audiences — though of course, the real gift would be to see the whole work.

Other dancers to keep an eye on include Adéla Pollertová, who returned to the Czech Republic a couple years ago from a soloist position in Neumier's Hamburg Ballet. She will perform a classic dance from The Nutcracker. Mário Radačovsky, a principal of the progressive Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal, will perform a piece of his own choreography. The cast also includes current leaders of the Prague scene, in particular Tereza Podařilová, whose sensitivity and maturity as a performer was seen recently in the excellent production of John Cranko's Onegin, and her partner Jiří Kodym, who danced the title role in the same work.