Northwest Ballet Company, the Flathead Valley's premier classical ballet performing company, is presenting its 33rd annual spring show production, "Sleeping Beauty," on Mother's Day weekend at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

It is the first time the company has performed the classic ballet.

The 2 p.m. matinee May 11 will be geared toward children, with free face painting before the show and the Fairies Parade meet-and-greet after the production in the theater.

The 8 p.m. May 11 performance features Missoula’s professional Modern Company, Bare Bait Dance, opening the show with some excerpts from its repertoire.

Lastly, the 4 p.m. May 12 performance — on Mother's Day afternoon — the most-attended show, is geared toward families and celebrating mothers.

Northwest Ballet Company is also bringing in professional guest artist Malachi Squires of Chicago to dance the part of Prince Florimund.

"I'm elated to bring such a classical ballet to the stage this spring season," said Northwest Ballet Company Director Marisa Roth.

"Each show has something different to offer our expectant audiences. From the little girl yearning to see the magic of the fairies in an age-old tale, to the dance enthusiast always expecting the artists at their finest, the weekend won't disappoint!"

This year's graduating high school senior in the company, Riley Freeman, dances the part of the Lilac Fairy. She has been inspired by the role and how her character carries the story line along. The Lilac Fairy is the only character featured in every scene.

“Skill doesn't make you the best dancer; passion does,” Freeman said.

Tickets for reserved seating are on sale now at the Kalispell Grand Hotel, 100 Main St. Call 755-8100 for more information.

After May 10, tickets will only be available one hour before each performance at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts box office.

Prices are $18 for adults, and $15 for children 12 and under.

For more information, call Northwest Ballet at 755-0760.