Manassas Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker accompanied by live orchestra.

As the holiday season approaches, so does the rich pageantry of Manassas Ballet Theatre's THE NUTCRACKER! Anchored by the dancers of the Manassas Ballet Theatre, Northern Virginia's largest professional ballet company, the story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince comes alive at the Hylton Performing Arts Center with the help of an ensemble cast and the MBT Orchestra.

Dates are December 15-23, with both evening and matinee shows to choose from.

Known for its exquisite costumes, choreography and scenery, MBT's production of THE NUTCRACKER has become Northern Virginia's go-to family holiday tradition. MBT had a near sell-out of eight shows in 2015, and tickets to 2016's ten shows are moving fast.

"Every year, we try to make some spectacular additions to our Nutcracker," says artistic director Amy Grant Wolfe. "For 2016, we have commissioned more custom scenery, which will help set the stage for some holiday magic!" With 25 full-time, professional dancers from around the world and a supporting youth cast from affiliated school Manassas Ballet Academy, the grandness of Nutcracker is sure to be a delight for all ages.

On December 15, opening night, MBT presents the annual Salute to the Military, with tickets for active duty and veterans free of charge.

Tickets start at $25 and are available at http://www.hyltoncenter.org and (888) 945-2468. Performances are as follows: Thursday-Friday, December 15-16, 7:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, December 17-18, 3:00pm & 7:30pm; Tuesday-Wednesday, December 20-21, 7:30pm; Thursday-Friday, December 22-23, 3:00pm. For tickets, ticket discounts (including discounts for Prince William County/Manassas City employees and teachers) and information, please visit http://www.manassas-ballet.org or call the studio at (703) 257-1811.