The wondrous Christmas story of a little girl’s dream will return to Ames Saturday, December 12 at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m, as well as Sunday, December 13 at 1:30 p.m. in C.Y. Stephens Auditorium for “The Nutcracker Ballet.”

Students can purchase tickets prior to the show for $20 at the C.Y. Stephens Ticket Office with a student ID.

“The Nutcracker” is a tale told through dancing and instrumental music. It is known for its whimsical storyline and charming characters.

The classic story begins on Christmas Eve and then leads into a little girl’s dream of a nutcracker, which then comes to life as her prince.

The girl and her prince explore their fantasy places together and then venture into a fantastic world of sweets ruled by The Sugar Plum Fairy.

Tchaikovsky wrote the original music featured in “The Nutcracker Ballet,” which was first performed in 1816, including the most well known song from the ballet, “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.”

Robert Thomas and Miyoko Kato Thomas from the Ames Dancenter have choreographed the Iowa State Center’s annual production of “The Nutcracker Ballet.”

This is the 35th year that this ballet has returned to Ames, as the ballet will be sure to dazzle the audience, as well as recreate the traditions and timeless spirit of the holiday season.