Performances in N.Y.C. Advertisement Supported by Critic’s Notebook Olympic gymnastics would be more enjoyable on TV and in the arena if choreography were less of an afterthought, our critic writes.

Yates Gym holds its breath in anticipation when music hits the air. Gymnasts stop twirling on bars and come to a standstill on beam to watch the Bruins take the floor. Even when it’s just another ...