Day in and day out since the end of October 160 youth and 46 adults from The Nashville Ballet have been perfecting their leaps and twirls, getting ready for eleven performances of a classic Christmas tale, with a Nashville twist.

"Claire's parents are hosting party and in our version lots of historical figures in Nashville's community are involved so makes it special to Nashville, Tennessee" says company member Kayla Rowser.

This version of The Nutcracker may mention Nashville, but the choreography and overall storyline is original to the 1800's.

"She goes into the land of sweets where you see characters you have seen music for on commercials and such, goes on journey with sugar fairy. It's a wonderful dreamland" says Rowser.

You will no doubt be wowed by the talent of the all local cast, but the costumes are just as jaw dropping.

"They were designed by Campbell Baird they are so magical. Up close all this beading and stitch work is amazing" says Rowser.

So they don't wear themselves too thin, the cast changes from show to show. Kayla Rowser takes on the role of either the sugar plum fairy or the dew drop fairy, and like many of the dancers, got the ballet bug from this very show, "I remember seeing nutcracker when I was seven and after that being involved in nutcracker in some way" she says.

The Nashville Nutcracker started in 1989 and every year since  has taken audiences on a magical journey, without speaking a single word.

"We do not speak in ballet so everything is through  acting or through our bodies" says Rowser.

A great holiday tradition the entire family can enjoy!

"You see holiday elements on stage and it's the holidays when The Nutcracker takes place. It's a magical time for dancers, kids and hopefully parents as well" says Rowser.

Performances start Sunday December 9th. For a complete list of shows and how you can get tickets visit - http://www.nashvilleballet.com

The Nashville Ballet Holds Dress Rehearsals For "The Nutcracker"