Tacoma City Ballet announces its 62nd year and inaugural performance of “The Nutcracker & The Tale of The Hard Nut” at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center.

Choreographed by Artistic Director Erin M. Cerigioli, the classic score by Tchaikovsky is performed live by the Tacoma Ballet Orchestra under the direction of maestro Bernard Kwiram.

This holiday classic, first presented in 1892 in St. Petersburg, has entertained generations for over a century. “The Tale of The Hard Nut” is presented alongside the traditional Russian classic “The Nutcracker,” creating a performance filled with dance, music, grand scenery and lavish costumes.

Six performances of “The Nutcracker & The Tale of The Hard Nut” will be presented between Dec. 15 and Dec. 23. For a special treat, a “Sugar Plum Tea” can be added to the matinee performances on Sunday, Dec. 17, and Saturday, Dec. 23, when characters from the production visit with guests while enjoying tea and pastries.

Performance dates and times:

• Friday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.

• Sunday, Dec. 17, 3 p.m. (Sugar Plum Tea offered after the performance)

• Thursday, Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 23, 3 p.m. (Sugar Plum Tea offered after the performance)

Ticket Information:

Single admission tickets for the “The Nutcracker & The Tale of The Hard Nut” and the “Sugar Plum Tea” tickets for all performances are available at www.fwpaec.org by calling 253-835-7010 or at the Performing Arts and Event Center Patrons Services Office, 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way S., Federal Way. Box office hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets range in price from $34 to $104.