The Shepherdstown School of Dance will take the stage at the Frank Arts Center, at Shepherd University, with three performances of the famous Nutcracker Ballet on Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15. Curtains will rise at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15.

Students have been practicing for months in preparation for the three performances. The show will feature the classical tale of the Nutcracker featuring exquisite technique along with authentic music from Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet. The show features both children and parents from Shepherdstown School of Dance, making this holiday tradition a family affair.

Also making their cameo appearances as “party parents” are a few familiar faces from the Shepherdstown community, including: Margaret Cogswell as Frau Stahlbaum; Michael Santa Barbara as Heir Stahlbaum; and Joe Yates as Drosselmeyer. Party Parents will include Linda Miller and Charlie DeVine; Emily Romine and Joe Yates; Sandi Wilcox and Steve Cifala; Stacey Shaw and Jack Shaw; Sandy Sponaugle and David Hammer; Katie Ross and Homer Speaker; Kitty Clark and Mark Wirt.

Contemporary modern dancer and founder of Goose Route Arts Collaborative, Kitty Clark, will play the role of Mouse King.

Tickets are on sale now at www.shepherdstownschoolofdance.com and at Encore Apparel in Motion in Shepherdstown, W.Va. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information, please call 304-264-1832.

Shepherdstown School of Dance is committed to keeping the art and discipline of classical dance alive in our community. Find out more about the Shepherdstown School of Dance at their website www.shepherdstownschoolofdance.com.