It began as

a Christmas performance 13 years ago and has grown to become an annual

holiday tradition in the community.

Fayette Ballet,

a nonprofit cultural and educational organization based in Fayette County,

brings its production of "The Nutcracker" to Sams Auditorium,

for four performances this weekend.

Set in Germany,

the story takes place on Christmas Eve a century ago. Following a festive

evening, little Clara falls asleep with a magical nutcracker. She dreams

of a world where the Christmas tree grows and the Nutcracker comes to

life to lead an army of toy soldiers into battle against the Mouse King

and his followers.

Later, the

Nutcracker becomes a handsome prince who invites Clara to the Kingdom

of Sweets, where they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and entertained

Fairy crowns Clara a princess.

The production

features a cast of 125 area children and adults and is under the artistic

direction of Kathleen Senger. Principal dancers in the production will

include Marisa Mack as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Patrick Turner as her

Cavalier. Mack is a graduate of Spelman College and is in her second season

with the Ballethnic Dance Company. Turner, a principal dancer with the

Ballethnic Dance Company, is well remembered for his roles as Arabian

and Russian in last year's production of "The Nutcracker."

"We are

especially pleased with our effort this year and promise a professional

and enchanting Nutcracker production," said Senger. "Our audiences

no longer have to drive to Atlanta or Macon to see good, professional

dance at affordable prices for the family."

The Fayette

Ballet production will be complete with lavish sets, costumes and scenery

and will include a growing Christmas tree, falling snow, the Battle of

the Mice and Soldiers and a charming cast of dancers to present a magical,

colorful performance. In addition, some special surprises have been added

to this year's production, as well as additional choreography in the snow

scene.

"The Nutcracker"

will be presented Friday, Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30

p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Tickets are

available at Regions Bank in Peachtree City and Fayetteville and at the

Fayette Ballet office. Advanced reservations may be made by calling Fayette

Ballet at 770-631-4928 or 770-461-0976. Tickets are $10 and $12.50 for

reserved seating and $8 for children and seniors. Patron tickets are $22.50

and include choice reserved seating, a listing in the program book and

an invitation to the patrons' reception immediately following the Saturday

evening performance.

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