(CNN) — Decades after the tale was first performed on the stage of the Iowa Theater in Des Moines, the magic begins all over again with The Nutcracker.
Originally staged as a Russian folk dance in the mid 19th century, the story and its magical Christmas setting has enjoyed an incredible resurrection with many local dance troupes, students and school groups performing in the months leading up to the actual holiday performance.
The Nutcracker will be performed by 40 dancers and has a number of, mostly modern, influences.
Totems: An immersive experience
Claire Gazdin, one of the designers of “The Nutcracker,” offers another take on the classic character who “actually started out as a rebel toy.”
Several dance troupes, music schools and colleges have inspired the interactive experience.
From sultry hip hop to biblical-inspired music, one-on-one, the audiences will be immersed in a spiritual whirl as the performance swerves between the Soviet era and present day.
“It’s immersive, it really is an experience,” says Gazdin. “I think we do our best to elevate it and really turn it into something that’s really special to you.”
Take a look at the full cast.
How to see ‘The Nutcracker’
The touring production will be seen in 140 cities worldwide and will visit a new venue each month this season.
Find the schedule here