Christmas will come to Ames with or without snow. But it won’t come without “The Nutcracker.”

For the past 18 years, members of the Ames community have faithfully collaborated for a production of holiday favorite “The Nutcracker,” and this year was no exception.

Choreographed by Robert Thomas and his wife, Miyoko Kato Thomas, the famous ballet involved the talents of 240 local dancers and two guest Russian artists, Aleksandra Koltun and Ilia Gorev.

While organizing the ballet, the choreographers cleverly cast both of the guest artists in two roles, strategically utilizing their professional talents in as many ways as possible.

Koltun, dancing the part of the Snow Queen and the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Gorev, dancing the role of the Snow Prince and the Cavalier, performed what appeared to be effortless lifts, drops and jumps throughout their partner dances, demonstrating well-practiced classical technique and tender ballet partnering.

The highlight of their many performances was the romantic “Pas de Deux.” Accompanied by a passionate cello line, the two dancers moved across the stage elegantly with flawless footwork and an intensity on their faces that displayed their tremendous love for ballet.

Throughout the course of the ballet, both dancers had the opportunity to perform solos as well. During Gorev’s solo in the vigorous “Tarantella,” his large limbs moved quickly from side to side, showcasing his masculinity and blatant confidence.

Koltun’s solo, “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” demonstrated her ability to execute some of the highest kicks possible at the perfect length and speed.

Also notable were the characters of Clara and the Nutcracker, played by Nora Seleskie and Michael Fothergill. Adorned in a bright pink dress and bouncy blond curls, Seleskie floated around the stage embodying a gracefulness not often developed in such a young dancer.

Fothergill was well-picked for his character as well, as he skillfully executed the Nutcracker’s crisp, clean jumps and kicks.

Although costumed well, the part of Drosselmeyer, played by Joe Struss, lacked the mysteriousness and unpredictability often associated with the part. Though his movements were often distinct to his character, they seemed a bit graceless and lethargic at times.

The crafty scenery, created by Ronald Steger and Erica Zaffarano, was enough to keep the audience interested during lulls in the action.

Especially clever was the bright Christmas tree that grew as it was lifted up during the mouse/soldier fight to make the audience believe the action was all taking place under the Christmas tree.

Of course in real life, mouse fights and kingdoms made of sweets aren’t possible.

But it’s the storybook magic that has given this tale the reputation for which it is esteemed. And the fantasy is what brings people back to see it every year.