“A Tale of the Nutcracker”

Northwest Performing Arts Alliance and Riverside Performing Arts present “A Tale of the Nutcracker” at noon and 5 p.m. Dec. 21 at Fort Vancouver High School, 5700 E. 18th St., Vancouver. This 1950s-themed production is inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann’s “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” and takes place on Christmas Eve at the Williams’ residence, where Clara eagerly awaits the arrival of her favorite aunt, Debra Meier, who is bringing a new line of toys from Meier and Frank for the children, including a Nutcracker. This production blends acrobatics, classical ballet, jazz and tap with music by Tchaikovsky and Duke Ellington. Tickets are $27.85 to $37.85 at northwestpaa.org/performances.