What begins with a broken toy unfolds into a fantastical production of music, movement and magic in "The Nutcracker," a 19th-century tale that has evolved into a Christmas staple around the world.

"It’s special — it brings to life magic, and you can see that throughout every character,” said Brandon Holder, 19, who plays the titular Nutcracker in the upcoming production presented by Dance Theatre Northwest in collaboration with the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene.

The Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King, toy soldiers, flowers and many more beloved characters will leap, pirouette and grand pas de deux across the Schuler Performing Arts Center stage at 3 p.m. Dec. 21.

This is the third time Dance Theatre Northwest's dancers will perform "The Nutcracker" for local audiences, beginning with a show five years ago and another two years ago.

“We saw the need for a ‘Nutcracker’ in our area,” studio owner and director Andrea Goad said. “We didn’t see one being done, and it’s such a staple for ballet, for ballet lovers, it’s an important holiday tradition for a lot of people, so we figured we needed to fill that void.”

She said the music is a big part of that tradition as well.

“It’s very recognizable. It's really important to our holiday season,” Goad said. “People who don’t even know that it’s correlated with ‘Nutcracker,’ and then they see ‘Nutcracker and they’re like, ‘Ohh! That’s where that comes from.’” 

The story itself has been cherished by all ages throughout the ages.

“Everyone from child to adult can enjoy it,” Goad said. “The dancing is fun, lots of beautiful costumes. It starts out with a Christmas party and it’s just magical.” 

Hydee Lyman, 14, plays Mother Ginger and a flower in the “Waltz of the Flowers.” She said she has been in previous "Nutcracker" productions and enjoys how the story, dancing and music come together to create a smooth, well-done show.

“Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces is awesome,” Hydee said. 

She also emphasized the cultural value of the show for the community.

“It’s a good thing to support local studios and support local youth dancers that put time and dedication into their love of dance and art," Hydee said.

The 2024 production of "Nutcracker" will feature 120 Dance Theatre Northwest dancers plus several choir members and musicians from the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene.

Tickets start at $18. A portion of the sales will benefit the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene and LEAD Scholarship programming.

Info: recitalticketing.com/26458

    Emma Shafer, aglitter in her Snow Princess costume, rehearses a dance sequence with her castmates Dec. 2 at Dance Theatre Northwest in Rathdrum.
  

    Paxton St. Mark, center, fans out with her fellow Spanish dancers Dec. 2 during rehearsal for "The Nutcracker."
  

    Brandon Holder as the Nutcracker and Rilee Jurcevich prance off stage during Dec. 2's rehearsal of "The Nutcracker."