I'm sure the steps are challenging on an individual level. I'm more concerned with how the company is challenged artistically--as well as how the *audience* is challenged. I know that PAB is versitile; they've shown that many, many times in the past. I think, though, that they deserve to perform better work.
Ray, what would you like to see the company perform?
Personally, I would like to see more Jerome Robbins. I thought the addition of three Robbins ballets to the rep in the past few years was one of the company's more exciting recent developments. I'd also like to see some company premieres of various Balanchine works. However, I recognize that the acquisition of these works isn't really up to the company - rather, they're at the mercy of the Robbins and Balanchine Trusts for the rights. I'm excited about Weiss's Messiah next year because of the link to the company's history and the fact that it will likely draw some big crowds (allowing the company to perform some more edgy and interesting material that might not draw such big crowds). I also think that Wheeldon's Carnival of the Animals is a fun and interesting choice.
This question isn't really limited to Ray, I suppose - I guess I'm asking the board in general.