The classic tale of the "Nutcracker" will be presented this Saturday and

Sunday by the Georgia Youth Ballet, directed by Magdalena Maury.

Performances are at 2:30 and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Creekside

High School Auditorium in Fairburn.

According to Maury, her company draws on "a lot of humor" in its

execution of the traditional Christmas ballet. "We really want to entertain the

audience," she said.

Another twist in the Youth Ballet's production is having "Clara" dance

the pas de deux with the Cavalier.

Principle dancers include David Gant as the Cavalier, Randi Loudermilk

and Sara Hall alternating as Clara, and Hall and Emily Lannan alternating the role

of Sugar Plum Fairy. "Our principle dancers are students who have evolved to

this level," Maury said.

The Sunday matinee will allow scouts to take a backstage tour and earn a

commemorative patch for attending the show.

The Fayetteville-based Youth Ballet is a non-profit organization geared

to supporting the arts and nurturing serious dancers, Maury said. The company is

a member of the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. For more

information, call The Studio at 770-716-9858.

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