Join the Springfield Ballet Company for three performances of The Nutcracker on Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11. The SBC’s 42 nd annual rendition of the timeless ballet classic features a cast of 119 company dancers, talented local actors, youth dancers from the community and professional guest artists. The two-act ballet, which debuted on Dec. 18, 1892, in St. Petersburg, Russia, tells the story of Clara and her nutcracker, who journey from a lavish Christmas party to a battle with an evil mouse king, and on a magical trip through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. According to SBC’s artistic director Julia Ratz, The Nutcracker is “the perfect introduction to ballet and the performing arts -- combining culture, fantasy, magic and holiday tradition set to a recognizable and delightful score.” Tickets for The Nutcracker are available in advance, and range from $18-$30. For tickets and more information, call 206-6160 or visit http://sangamonauditorium.org.