Lafayette Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker is a Christmas tradition enjoyed by families across Acadiana. This ballet is unique because it casts children in its principal roles, a tradition started by George Balanchine in the 1950s and continued by Lafayette Ballet Theatre (LBT). This local ballet company is run by Mitzy and Shannon Heath, sisters who choreograph and teach each dance in the ballet. I have participated in The Nutcracker for the past 8 years and played an abundant number of roles in the show. Every Christmas season I get to experience the excitement and anticipation of being part of this magical production. The rehearsals are intense but rewarding, as we work together to perfect each dance and bring the story to life on stage. It’s truly a joy to perform with friends and see the audience’s faces light up with delight as they experience the enchantment of The Nutcracker. I encourage any interested Ascension students to attend the ballet this weekend and experience the magic of the theater.  This weekend, the tradition comes to life once again as LBT preforms the holiday ballet for the 22nd time.