The timeless classic “The Nutcracker” -- with a Laramie and Western theme -- will be performed Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 11-13, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. in the University of Wyoming College of Arts and Sciences auditorium.

The UW Department of Theatre and Dance sponsors the family holiday favorite. Tickets cost $16 for the public; $13 for senior citizens; and $8 for students. For tickets and information, visit the Wyoming Union or Performing Arts ticket offices, call (307) 766-6666 or go online at www.uwyo.edu/finearts.

This classic ballet fantasy is about a young girl, Clara, who receives a nutcracker for Christmas that spurs her fantastical dream. Based on the 19th century German fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffman and featuring Tchaikovsky's dazzling score, “The Nutcracker” comes alive with dancing snowflakes, magical mice, marching soldiers, waltzing flowers, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince.

UW dance faculty member Marsha Knight choreographed and directs the production, accompanied by the UW Symphony Orchestra, directed by Michael Griffith, and the UW Lab School Treble Choir, directed by Jennifer Mellizo.

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