Uncover the Minnesota Magic of the Nutcracker

State Theatre Performance

At the State Theatre on 805 Hennepin Av., Mpls., the holiday classic gets a Minnesota accent. Imagine a Mississippi River paddleboat, the state bird (loon), state flower (showy lady’s slipper), and the Capitol's golden horses adding to the festive atmosphere. The shows here on Dec. 13 at 7 p.m., Dec. 14 at 2 & 7 p.m., Dec. 15 at 1 & 4:30 p.m. at the Ames Center, 12600 Nicollet Av., Burnsville, cost between $35.50 and $38.50. For more information, call 952-895-4685 or visit ames-center.com.

It's not just a Nutcracker; it's a Minnesota celebration with these unique elements that bring the story to life in a whole new way.

Ballet Minnesota at O'Shaughnessy

On Dec. 14-15 at the O'Shaughnessy in St. Paul, Ballet Minnesota presents its “‘Classic Nutcracker”. Artistic director Andrew Rist, at the age of 74, steps into his ballet slippers to perform the role of the Rat King. He is joined by Robert Cleary, a longtime dancer who at 67 will perform Herr Drosselmeyer for his 25th year. Two guest dancers have also joined the cast this year. Benji Pearson has danced with San Francisco Ballet and Boston Ballet and worked with choreographers like William Forsythe, Alonzo King, and Justin Peck. Grace Pierce, featured in Dance magazine as an “Indie Ballerina,” will be the Sugar Plum Fairy. The shows are at 2 & 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 15. Tickets cost $5-$45. Call 651-690-6700 or visit oshag.stkate.edu.

This production by Ballet Minnesota showcases the talent and experience of these dancers, creating a truly memorable Nutcracker experience.

Ballet Co.Laboratory's "Nutcracker in Wonderland"

Ballet Co.Laboratory takes a unique approach with its rendition of the Nutcracker. Combining it with Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland", two heroines - Clara and Alice - explore a world made of sugar plums and wonder. They face challenges and discover their true selves. The performances are at 7 p.m. on Dec. 20, 2 & 7 p.m. on Dec. 21, and 2 p.m. on Dec. 22 at the O'Shaughnessy, 2004 Randolph Av., St. Paul. Tickets are $35 for children/students and $45 for adults. Call 651-690-6700 or visit oshag.stkate.edu.

This maximalist approach adds a new dimension to the Nutcracker, making it a must-see for both Nutcracker lovers and fans of "Alice in Wonderland".

National Tour at Orpheum Theatre

The national tour features a host of European ballet talent, 10-feet-tall puppets, and a message of peace and harmony. The shows are at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 1 & 5 p.m. on Dec. 7 at the Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Av., Mpls. Tickets cost $36-$140. Call 612-339-7007 or visit hennepinarts.org.

This tour brings a global flavor to the Nutcracker, with the added excitement of the large puppets and the powerful message of peace.