Forgive us the momentary bout of Men Are from Mars-style sexism, but we have a feeling it takes nothing short of the Jaws of Life to wedge most guys into a seat at the ballet. But ladies, if you want to convince your boyfriend that not every dance date involves twinkle toes and Swan Lake, take him to Momentum, presented by the Harvard Ballet Company. The performance, which runs tonight through Sunday (8 p.m. shows) and Thursday, November 12, through Saturday, November 14 (8 p.m. shows plus a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday), showcases gifted student dancers who synthesize the smooth, flowing styles of classical ballet with a decidedly urban, contemporary approach. Choreographer Josie Walsh has created a spectacle based on her LA-based MyoKyo productions, performances described as “renegade rock ballet” that combine the theatric sensibility of rock opera with the aerialist skills of a Cirque du Soleil show, blend the foundations of ballet with a harder hip-hop edge, and throw in the screeching guitars of industrial music played by a lumbering, 10-foot-tall, stilt-walking rocker for good measure. Even guys will gape. Leave the traditional tutus at home and head to the Loeb Mainstage (64 Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617.547.8300). Tickets ($12, $8 for students) are available here.
