Led by choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, Ballet Preljocaj has become one of the best-known contemporary dance troupes in France. Preljocaj studied classical ballet before turning to contemporary dance under Merce Cunningham, and also spent a year in Japan studying Noh theater.

The company will introduce two new works to Japanese audiences: "N" ( Program A, Jan. 31-Feb. 1), an energetic mix of music, dance and images that reflect the choreographer's despair with the state of the world; and "Les Quatre Saisons" (Program B, Feb. 4-5) a "vital, slightly spiteful" piece featuring Day-Glo green men, bunnies and porcupines dancing to Vivaldi's familiar violin concerto.

Ballet Preljocaj perform Jan. 31, Feb. 1 and 4 at 7 p.m. and 3 p.m. only on Feb. 5 at New National Theatre in Shibuya. For more information, call (03) 5352-9999 or visit www.nntt.jac.go.jp

(Listing courtesy of TokyoQ.com.)