Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, a family holiday tradition for decades, returns at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3 p.m. Dec. 3 to FIM Whiting Auditorium.

The story of Clara, a young girl swept away to a magical land of adventure, is a joy for adults and children alike. Clara’s family Christmas Eve party features stately dances and lifelike mechanical dolls made by Clara’s mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer. Drosselmeyer’s magic ushers in an army of mice at the stroke of midnight, as the Christmas tree grows and Clara’s beloved Nutcracker springs to life.

The second act sweeps Clara away to the magical Land of Sweets, where she enjoys performances from the regal Sugar Plum Fairy and her subjects. The joy, beauty and adventure of The Nutcracker have something for the whole family to enjoy. Join the FIM Flint Symphony Orchestra, FIM Flint School of Performing Arts ballet students, and professional guest artists from Collage Dance Collective of Memphis in celebrating this beloved holiday tradition.

FSPA Dance Department Chair Tara Gragg says the rich traditions of The Nutcracker will continue as she takes on the role of artistic director.

“Those who come year after year have likely noticed a few updates as time goes by, but one of my favorite things about this production is how familiar it feels. As someone who has danced nearly every role in this production as an FSPA student, from a Little Mouse to the Dew Drop Fairy, I know that there is so much magic for our young dancers in imagining all the possibilities.”

The collaboration with Collage Dance Collective remains a tradition this year.

“I’m thrilled to continue our collaboration with Collage Dance Collective, bringing highly skilled professional artists to inspire our students and dazzle our audience,” Gragg says.

Tickets are on sale now.

The performance is sponsored by