For the 22nd season, High Point Ballet is presenting the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker," Dec. 18-21 at the Hayworth Fine Arts Center on the campus of High Point University.

As part of this annual celebration, audience members will delight in the new choreography, characters, and costumes as they participate in the only interactive 'Nutcracker' in the Triad area.

The story unfolds at the inviting home of the Silverhaus family where even the audience is graciously welcomed to the evening's festivities and are invited to mix and mingle with guests from around the world.

The magic continues as Clara, the Silverhaus' daughter, slips into a dreamy, after-party slumber and the story unfolds.

Changing with each scene of the dream is a fantastic and unequalled Nutcracker stage set produced by a collaborative effort between the High Point Ballet and world renowned designer, Howard Jones, along with artists and carpenters from the North Carolina School of the Arts.

Bringing the stage to life is once again under the creative direction of the

Tony-nominated Craig Stelzenmueller, and staffed with graduates of North Carolina School of the Arts.

A favorite of the young people are the special Land of the Sweets performances held Saturday, Dec. 20, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

These Nutcracker shows are tailored for children and feature a parade of characters giving everyone a chance to meet the Nutcracker cast in full costume and have photo and autograph opportunities.

A special performance for educators will be held Thursday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m. with feature performances Friday and Saturday evening, Dec. 19-20 at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee performance Sunday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.

Tickets for this holiday family classic are on sale and may be purchased by calling the Ballet Ticket Line, (336) 889-9121.

Box office hours are Monday through Friday, 1 to 6 p.m.

Ticket prices are $25 for adults and $22 for students. Land of the Sweets tickets are $22 each. All seating is reserved.

Visit www.highpoint ballet.org for additional information.