Sugar plums dance sweetly in 'The Nutcracker' at Arrowhead

There are a few classic stories that are unmistakably connected with Christmas.

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” leaps to mind as does Clement Moore’s beloved poem “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

Right up there is “The Nutcracker,” based on the story "The Nutcracker and the King of Mice" written by E.T.A. Hoffman.  It is the story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads.

Anyone who has seen “The Nutcracker Ballet” will never forget the wonderfully festive party scene, the fast, ferocious fight scene, the enchanting journey through the Land of Snow, and all the charming dances, The Arabian Dance, The Russian Dance, The Chinese Dance and The Waltz of Flowers.

Why not start your holiday season with Lake Country Dance Theatre’s version of “The Nutcracker” at 7 p.m. Friday and noon Saturday, Nov. 18 and 19, at Arrowhead High School. 

Tickets for the show are $12 for adults and $10 for children under and seniors over 60. Tickets are available through today at Hartland Music and Fox Brothers Piggly Wiggly.    

A free Sugar Plum Festival will be held from 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. before the noon Saturday show that includes pictures with the Sugar Plum Fairy and other characters, games and crafts.  Nutcracker goodies and gifts will be available for a small fee.