Whether arising from the natural world (fires, hurricanes) or the human heart (shootings and other tragedies), cruelty has been one of the dominant characteristics 2018. But not in all quarters. I found optimism and empathy in the theater, where the year’s best dance performances were characterized by great sensitivity. These events told the stories of people who are otherwise overlooked, or they uncovered depths in stories I thought I knew. They connected us with other cultures or with unexpected artists. Their warming effect endures.