CRITIC’S PICKS

Imagine watching the largest modern dance corps you’ve ever seen not only move in perfect unison but breathe as one. Imagine looking closer to find each member a world-class soloist: physically eloquent and deeply involved emotionally. Imagine not imagining such phenomenal dancers but seeing them at the Orange County Performing Arts Center in works by a modernist master.

Welcome to a summer crowned by Nederlands Dans Theater, Jiri Kylian’s virtuoso ensemble, at the center in Costa Mesa from July 27 to Aug. 3 in two programs of mixed repertory. Expect the U.S. premiere of a Kylian creation, several examples of his early masterworks (“Symphony of Psalms,” “Soldier’s Mass”)--plus “Softly as I Leave You” by Paul Lightfoot, a fearless British choreographer who turns 30 this year.

The summer’s other upscale events include American Ballet Theatre in a long-awaited return to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, June 26-30, with Paloma Herrera and Angel Corella aiming for team stardom in both Balanchine’s “Theme and Variations” and the full-length “Don Quixote.”

July 19 promises to be doubly memorable: Garth Fagan’s “Mix 25” at the Carpenter Center at Cal State Long Beach opposite the opening program of “Dance Kaleidoscope ‘96” at the Luckman Theater at Cal State L.A. No repeats, so take your pick.