Mr. Vinogradov added that Kirov dancers would teach at the school when the company performed in Washington in 1991.

The Kirov dancers have done something just as interesting.

One reason may be that, surprisingly, the current generation of Kirov dancers is new to "The Sleeping Beauty."

But Miss Kolpakova epitomized the vitality and assured classicism of these Kirov dancers, with her strong, pliant feet a particular delight.

The choreography, passed down from Fokine, will be retained, which is good news since the athletic Kirov dancers execute it dazzlingly.

She then turned her back to the audience and curtsied deeply to the Kirov dancers who filled the stage.

Many of the Kirov dancers were superb.

Two Americans not only staged the works but instructed the Kirov dancers in the finer points of dancing Balanchine.

They were the first Kirov dancers to appear as guests with an American company.

Balanchine's fast technique presents special challenges to the Kirov dancers.