Los Angeles Youth Ballet presents the world premiere of a new production of “The Nutcracker” by award-winning choreographer Andrea Paris-Gutierrez starring Joffrey Ballet principal dancers Jeraldine Mendoza (Sugar Plum Fairy) and Dylan Gutierrez (Sugar Plum Fairy’s Cavalier) in three performances: Friday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the historic Alex Theatre in Glendale.

Adding to the rich compendium of this beloved holiday tradition, Paris-Gutierrez’s new youth-inspired version of the two-act ballet, featuring Tchaikovsky’s quintessential score, includes traditional influences as well as Paris-Gutierrez’s distinctive point of view as the artistic director of the lauded LA Youth Ballet and an experienced mentor of young dancers.

Darrion Sellman, a 13-year-old rising dance star who moved from Virginia to Los Angeles specifically to train with Paris-Gutierrez and LA Youth Ballet, is cast as the Nutcracker. Annie Bernstein and Jana Teruel alternate in the role of Clara; Malcolm McLaurin Takumi and Marcel Ramirez alternate in the role of as Fritz, Clara’s brother. Children and parents at the party, soldiers, Mouse King, mice, snowflakes, flowers and dolls are performed by the accomplished dancers of LA Youth Ballet. St. Mel School Children’s Choir, led by director Susie Penney, provides live vocals for the performances.

Tickets start at $25 and are available through the Alex Theatre Box Office by calling (818) 243-2539 or visiting www.alextheatre.org.

The Alex Theatre is located at 216 N. Brand Blvd. in Glendale.

Program, artists and ticket prices subject to change.