MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Richland Academy of the Arts is bringing its annual holiday tradition, The Nutcracker Ballet, back to the Renaissance Theatre stage for two performances as part of the Christmas at the Ren series presented by Brightspeed.

Performances will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m.

Directed and choreographed by Sarah Horrigan-Ramos and Marden Ramos, the production showcases Tchaikovsky’s beloved score through intricate choreography and vibrant costumes.

Sarah Horrigan-Ramos highlighted the community aspect of the show, noting that many local families have watched their dancers progress through various roles over the years.

“This year, we will proudly watch seven high school seniors who have grown up in our studios perform in their final RAA Nutcracker, and also, see many new dancers in this production for their very first time,” Horrigan-Ramos said.

The show features local student dancers sharing key roles, including Mansfield Christian School senior Ava Irwin and Ontario High School senior Eva Rietschlin as co-Sugar Plum Fairy Princesses. The roles of the Nutcracker Prince and Older Clara will be danced by Trevor Grimes (Wooster High School senior) and Olyve Isch (Lexington Junior High) on Sunday, and by Milo McDonald (Ashland High School) and Sylvia Burns (Ontario Junior High) on Saturday.

Homeschooler Kennedy Newman will dance the part of younger Clara, a dream role for the young ballerina. “Like every young ballerina, I have always had the dream of one day dancing the part of Clara in The Nutcracker,” Newman said.

Joining the local cast are guest performers from the Cleveland Ballet: Johan Mancebo returns as the Cavalier, and his fiancée Gabriella Checo performs as the Sugar Plum Fairy Queen.

From the Battle with the Mouse King to the Waltz of the Flowers, the ballet continues to be a cherished part of Mansfield’s holiday season, uniting families and performers.

Tickets for the show are available through the Renaissance Theatre Box Office at 419-522-2726 or online at rentickets.org.