JUNE 20-22

Three days, three programs, one world premiere. Liz Lerman’s back at the Lansburgh Theater with her thought-provoking brand of word-and-movement choreography. In the four dances that make up “Flip Sides” (Friday), Lerman showcases the cross-generational ensemble that makes her work so unique. The pieces range from a clever 1974 solo about her brief career as a go-go dancer to a splendid 1995 opus called Flying Into the Middle that explores everything from middle age to midriff bulge. Saturday, there’s a bargain ($5) “interactive” matinee during which patrons get to improvise with the company and see how a dance is actually made. And the remainder of the run (Saturday night and Sunday) will be given over to the first public performances of Shehechianu (pictured), the eveninglong work on the Jewish prayer of sustenance that has consumed Lerman for the last three years. Characteristically issue-oriented, it’s an exploration of how history influences the future, and leaps from the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair to that millennial bridge our politicians keep talking about crossing. The final performance will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by PBS personality Dennis Wholey. At 8 p.m. Friday, 2 & 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Lansburgh Theater, 450 7th St. NW. $5-25. (301) 270-6700. (Bob Mondello)