TURN-ONS AND TURN-OFFS IN CURRENT HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASES : Excellent Good Fair Poor : VIDEOCASSETTES

“Natalia Makarova: In a Class of Her Own.” VAI. $49.95. The narration (spoken by former Royal Ballet dancer Christopher Gable) treats this beloved ex-Kirov ballerina like some prestige property to be sold, but the conversations/rehearsals with choreographer Roland Petit and demonstrations of stylistic problems in such classics as “Swan Lake” and “Giselle” provide sharp insights into Makarova’s artistry--and limitations. Moreover, her private instruction from esteemed Soviet ballet teacher Irina Yakobsen offers lessons to us all on how to perceive and evaluate classical technique. No onstage dance footage. Information: (800) 431-9003.