The annual production of "The Nutcracker" returns to DeYor Performing Arts Center on Saturday and Sunday, featuring over 100 Youngstown and regional performers. 

Starting Dec. 6, the Edward W. Powers Auditorium will be converted into a winter wonderland to showcase"The Nutcracker" performances from the Ballet Western Reserve (BWR). This year's performance "represents the culmination of months of preparation and stands as Ballet Western Reserve's signature annual performance," the dance academy stated in a news release.

"Our Nutcracker production is so much more than a performance – it's a celebration of our entire dance community," Executive & Artistic Director Danielle Perrotta said. "Seeing our students grow from nervous auditionees to confident performers on that stage is incredibly rewarding. This production brings together everything we work toward all year – technical excellence, artistic expression, and the pure joy of dance."

Dean Buck will conduct the show's full orchestra, comprised of regional professional musicians, for his fourth consecutive year. 

The selected cast represents ages 4 to 18 years old with lead roles including Ava Carbon as Dew Drop, Jericho Johnson as the Nutcracker Prince, Lexi McCrea as Clara, Lila McCrea as Snow Queen, Maria Wilson as the Sugar Plum Fairy and guest artist Jens Lee as Cavalier.

The production will take place on Dec. 6 at 7:00 PM and Dec. 7 at 2:30 PM at the Edward W. Powers Auditorium on West Federal Street.

Full event information and tickets are available online.