Boston Ballet dancers are sparkling in "Jewels. " The program at the Citizens Opera House highlights three individual George Balanchine ballets, performed one after another.

Each piece represents a distinct style of neo-classical ballet from one of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century.

Principal dancer WanTing Zhao said, "He's a legend and he has such a unique style."

"I consider him very much the godfather of neoclassical ballet," added principal dancer Jeffrey Cirio.

Boston Ballet may not be what it is today without George Balanchine. He played a vital role in establishing it as a professional company and served as artistic advisor in the early 1960s.

Artistic director Mikko Nissinen has worked to keep that connection alive. "In my tenure, we've done over 35

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