For many families, being in the Nutcracker is a holiday tradition filled with lots of laughter and fun.

The Watkins family, of Loomis, has been a part of Placer Theatre Ballet’s The Nutcracker for the last 10 years. This year marks Megan and Madison Watkins tenth year of participation and the second year for their little brother John.

Megan, a ballet dancer at The Conservatory of Dance, dances the roles of Snowflake, Spanish, Waltz of the Flowers, Snow Crystal and Sugar Plum Fairy. Megan said she loves the thrill she gets while performing on stage in front of an audience. Madison, also a ballet dancer at The Conservatory of Dance, dances the roles of Snowflake, Waltz of the Flowers Lead, Spanish and Snow Crystal.

Madison said she enjoys performing in The Nutcracker because it makes her excited for the holiday season and sets the Christmas mood. John will be performing in the role of a party boy and likes being in The Nutcracker because he gets to be with his big sisters. Placer Theatre Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a lively and colorful rendition of this holiday favorite that has become an annual tradition for many.

Guests join Clara as she steps from a festive party into a magical dream where soldiers and mice battle. After Clara and her beloved Nutcracker Prince defeat the Mouse King, they travel through a kingdom of snow and ice before arriving at the palace of the Sugar Plum Fairy, where a dazzling array of entertainers from around the world gather to give her an evening full of fantasy and fun that she will never forget.

“Placer Theatre Ballet’s Nutcracker has become a tradition for the families of South Placer County,” said Shea Wing, artistic director. “We are proud to present our 15th annual Nutcracker this season, where we will continue our tradition of showcasing the talent of so many local dancers.”

The Donate a Ticket program provides an opportunity for the public to donate any amount toward the cost of a ticket for a child or senior in need, with $15 covering one ticket. Organizers said this program helps reach more families in need to enjoy a little holiday magic. Placer Theatre Ballet’s Donate a Ticket program has benefited programs that include Seniors First, Placer County CASA, Foster Care Agency Placer Kids and other local organizations.

PLACER THEATRE BALLET’S NUTCRACKER

What: Traditional holiday ballet

Where: Placer High School Theater, 275 Orange St., in Auburn,

When: 2 p.m., Dec. 1; noon and 4 p.m., Dec. 2; 1 and 5 p.m., Dec. 8; noon and 4 p.m., Dec. 9.

Cost: $13 child; $16 adults; premium seats $20

Information and tickets: 630-7820, www.placertheatreballet.org