LEARNED RESPONSE

When a recent Sarasota Ballet production earned raves from The New York Times, Logan Learned, 22, drew special praise. The Times critic singled out Learned's "marvelous pliancy" and "real sweetness" in the ballet’s tribute to choreographer Frederick Ashton. Originally from Berkeley, Calif., he was an active child, Learned says, which led him to ballet. "My parents were like, ‘Ooh, this kid needs something to get his energy out,’" he says. In just his first season here, Learned feels he’s found a professional home. "With the Times review, among other things, Sarasota Ballet is beginning to get recognized around the world," he says. "Anything can happen here." Look for Learned in Anna Karenina, March 20 and 21.