The Sierra Nevada Ballet will present the popular “'Peanutcracker' – The Story in Nut Shell” throughout the Reno/Lake Tahoe region this December. Based on the Peter Tchaikovsky's original ballet “The Nutcracker,” "Peanutcracker" is a shorter, 45-minute narrated version that is “designed for families with younger children to introduce them to the wonderful world of ballet,” noted Rosine Bena, Artistic Director of the Sierra Nevada Ballet. Bena wrote and choreographed this traditional holiday show. Beginning Nov. 9, enter to win two tickets to the performance of your choice! Enter here This year's performances will feature the Ballet's professional dancers, apprentices, and trainees, in addition to dance students from schools in the local community. "Peanutcracker" features Sierra Nevada Ballet stars Larissa Cassera, Alexander Biber and Ramona Cachinero. • Carson City – Dec. 5 The first event is scheduled for Dec. 5 in conjunction with the Carson City Redevelopment Authority, the Sierra Nevada Ballet and the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. The shows are scheduled for at 2:30 p.m and 7 p.m. at the Carson City Community Center. Ticket prices start at $6 for youth (15 and under); all other tickets are $11 and can be purchased on line at www.laketahoeshakespeare.com/tickets or call (800) 74-SHOWS. • Virginia City – Dec. 6 PEANUTCRACKER – The Story in a Nut Shell will also be presented for the general public at Piper's Opera House in Virginia City on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2:30 p.m.. Ticket prices start at $6 for youth (15 and under). All other tickets are $11. For more information, visit www.pipersoperahouse.com or call (866) 422-1956. • Reno – Dec. 15 Students in the Reno area can enjoy this special holiday event at the Pioneer Center for Performing Arts on December 15th at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. For ticket information, contact the Sierra Nevada Ballet at (775) 783-3223.