Nothing says Christmastime quite like Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.”

This Thanksgiving weekend, the Northwest Ballet Co. is bringing the magic of the classic ballet to the Bigfork Performing Arts Center stage.

“This is sort of the first Merry Christmas moment after Thanksgiving,” said Marisa Roth, the Northwest Ballet Co. owner and director. “[The dancers] are all excited.”

The ballet tells the story of Clara, a young girl who dreams of a festive holiday wonderland that includes mischievous mice, shimmering snowflakes, holiday candies, a Sugar Plum Fairy and of course, the Nutcracker Prince.

“This is like a dream come true for me,” said principal dancer and Whitefish High School senior Danielle Esakoff, who will be dancing the part of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

This production will be the Northwest Ballet Co.’s 22nd annual performance of “The Nutcracker.”

“It’s such a tradition here in the Valley,” Roth said.

All told — between dancers, costumers, technical support, and volunteers — Roth estimated that close to 100 people are involved in the production. The dancers have been rehearsing since September, and just this week moved into the Bigfork Performing Arts Center to make final preparations for the opening show.

“There is something about every stage [of production] that just gives me goosebumps,” Roth said.

Principal dancer and Glacier High School junior Olivia Ogle agreed.

“The mindset changes when you go from studio to stage,” said Ogle, who is dancing the part of the Snow Queen in this year’s production. “It’s real now. It’s actually happening, finally!”

This year’s performances are Friday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 28, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 29, at 4 p.m. at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts. The Sugar Plum Fairy Parade will follow the 2 p.m. matinées on Friday and Saturday.

Tickets will be available at the Bigfork Center’s box office one hour before the performances start. Ticket prices are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors 65 and older, and $15 for children 12 and younger.

Danika Tintzman, 12, plays the part of Clara in the production. It’s her first year being involved in “The Nutcracker,” and anticipates a full house for all the shows.

“The dancers are all phenomenal, and it’s a good show for the whole family,” Tintzman said. “There is something for all ages and it’s really fun.

“I’m excited — I’m going to need a lot of sleep!”

For more information, call the Northwest Ballet Co. at 406-755-0760 or visit www.northwestballet.com.

Entertainment Editor Stefanie Thompson can be reached at 758-4439 or ThisWeek@dailyinterlake.com.