Now in its sixth season at Youth Theatre Northwest, “Excerpts from the Nutcracker,” performed by students of the Children’s Dance Conservatory and Island Youth Ballet, has become a Mercer Island tradition — entertaining a diverse audience of not only parents, but senior citizens from local retirement facilities and families throughout the region.

The production evolves from year to year with dancers of greater skill and work that showcases their talent and commitment. The dancers are classically trained and rehearse a minimum of four days per week, enduring long hours of rehearsal for their love of dance and performing. 

Performances are scheduled for Dec. 13-14 at 2 p.m., Dec. 19 at 7 p.m., Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. and Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and the performance is two hours, including intermission.

All performances are held at Youth Theatre Northwest, located at 8805 S.E. 40th St. on Mercer Island.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.iybnutcracker.com or at the door, or call (206) 275-4750 or e-mail susan@childrensdance.org.