A scene from the 2024 production of “Urban Nutcracker.”

For two and a half decades, Tony Williams’ “Urban Nutcracker” has reimagined the classic holiday story to the jazzy rhythms of Duke Ellington in the beloved setting of Boston. The production has made the performance more local, more accessible and more diverse, incorporating performers of all backgrounds and dance styles into the vivid production.

“I didn’t even know if we would get through the first year without failing,” confesses Tony Williams, artistic director, choreographer and founder of the production. “But it was all a big success the first year and after 24 more years of producing the show it gets better and better.”

Throughout the performance audiences will spot Revere Beach, the Massachusetts State House, Fenway Park and many other local highlights. There’s a whole number inspired by the “Make Way for Ducklings” story and its sculptures in the Boston Public Garden.

This year the cast will include Flamenco star Nino de los Reyes; tap dance talent and original “Urban Nutcracker” cast member Khalid Hill; guest dancers from the French island of Guadeloupe and many others. As always, the performers will be accompanied by an eight-piece Boston-based band.

Williams was the first African American principal dancer in the Boston Ballet and has made it his mission to create inclusive opportunities for dancers of color and other minority groups. This manifests in many ways in the “Urban Nutcracker,” from Duke Ellington’s score and the inclusion of hip-hop, breakdance and flamenco styles to the annual LGBTQ+ inclusive performance featuring local drag artist Patty Bourrée.

“We’re diversity through dance,” said Williams. “It’s not just racial diversity, it’s more inclusion for all citizens in Boston to feel represented in the artistic aspect of the ‘Urban Nutcracker.’”

For the first time in a quarter century, the show will get a bit of an aesthetic refresh with new costumes designed by Rebecca Cross and constructed by Alex Arruda and Erika Lambe and updated Act One sets by Janie Howland.

“Urban Nutcracker” runs at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre Dec. 13-21. Tickets start at $29.

Williams said one of the strengths of the production is its mass appeal. There are scenes with classical ballet, tutus and glitter; scenes with deep Boston connections; scenes with intense tap choreography and more. There is something for everyone and that’s partially what draws such a diverse crowd.

“This production is a love letter to Boston, blending our city’s landmarks, history and diversity into a joyful holiday tradition,” said Williams. “I invite everyone to join us this season to share in the magic and spirit of community.”

ON THE WEB

Learn more and buy tickets at urbannutcracker.com