OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) – It has been a holiday tradition for over a century.

“It’s just kind of a magical story that brings people together,” said Erika Overturff, artistic director and CEO of American Midwest Ballet.

The “Nutcracker” ballet returns to the subway stages, starting this weekend at the Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center in Council Bluffs.

Katerina Schweitzer with the American Midwest Ballet plays the central character, 12-year-old Clara.

“She receives a nutcracker as a Christmas present and loves it so much. And then finally, after the party is over, she has a dream of the nutcracker coming to life, ”said Schweitzer.

The performance takes place to the iconic music of composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky and features a variety of enchanting sets and over 250 unique costumes.

“There are so many rhinestones and sequins and vibrant colors and it really brings them to life,” said Schweitzer.

Overturff says some things are a little different with the Nutcracker this year.

“This is the first year that we’ve had a professional dancer playing the part of Clara, and Katarina is doing a fabulous job. We also have several new scenes that have been re-choreographed or re-imagined this year, ”Overturff said.

From breathtaking snow country to dreamland, “The Nutcracker” transports audiences to a place where nostalgia blossoms, creating excitement for the holiday season.

“I think we can all relate to that sense of childhood wonder and magic and that’s what brings us back year after year to this production,” Overturff said.

Tickets are still available for Saturday performances. Sunday is full.

In early December, there will be more opportunities to see “The Nutcracker” at the Orpheum Theater in Omaha.

Tickets can be purchased online here.

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