I do have some thoughts as applies to Houston and other companies. First, I would like to point out that Houston Ballet and Stanton Welch in particular seem to be honoring classical ballets in their rep currently. (as is evident by his committment to creating an all new Swan Lake, premiering in a few weeks.) So, I was actually confused at first by the article in the Houston Chronicle. The author seems to contradict herself from beginning to end. She starts by bemoaning the fact that Houston may be fazing out the classics yet later mentions that colaborations with two notable contemporary choreographers is long overdue. Additionally, as Mr. Welch is a world renowned choreographer in his own right, why wouldn't his own company be performing his ballets? (as she negatively comments on the upcoming season as the "year of Stanton Welch.")
Each and every ballet company in the US has an interest in keeping and expanding it's audience base. No company wants to be caught behind the eight ball in addressing trends towards perferred entertainment. You must anticipate and deliver what the audience wants to see. By mixing the classics and contemporary, you address those issues and offer up "something for everyone."
I do believe that Houston is ready for this change and Mr. Welch is anticipating what is to come. Full length classical ballets, hugely expensive to produce, put a strain on the resources of ballet companies. They must find a balance between that classical rep and a more contemporary fare, which is oftentimes less costly to produce. Only time will tell if Houston is successful in doing so.