The Emerald Ballet Theater (EBT) will return to the Northshore Performing Arts Center for its eight production of The Nutcracker at 2 p.m. Dec. 6,7,13 and 14.

EBT’s full-length production features a live orchestra, gorgeous costumes, lavish sets and exquisite choreography in the Russian tradition. Emeline Settlemyre makes her debut as the Sugar

Plum Fairy and Shane Tice is her Cavalier. They are joined by regional professionals and more than 160 Emerald Ballet Academy (EBA) students, ages 6-17. Maria Gringauze of Redmond and Kaylee Morris of Mercer Island share the role of little Clara. Madeline Griffith of Bellevue plays big Clara and Natan Lubow of Kenmore is her Cavalier.

All performances feature the Rainier Symphony Ballet Orchestra, with David Waltman conducting. It’s a collaboration that EBT’s Artistic Director Viktoria Titova is both proud of and grateful. “We’re the only Eastside Nutcracker that can boast a live orchestra. It truly elevates our production, inspiring our dancers and audience members alike,” Titova said.

Tickets are $20 for children under 17, $31.50 for seniors and $35 for adults. Tickets can be purchased by calling 425-984-2471 or visiting www.npacf.org. The Northshore Performing Arts Center features free parking.