It just wouldn't be Christmastime without eggnog, kissing under the mistletoe and "The Nutcracker." We'll leave the first two at your discretion, but we can definitely help with that third item. The Oklahoma City Ballet's seasonal production of the classic ballet premieres Friday, Dec. 9, at the Civic Center Music Hall. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic performs the gorgeous Tchaikovsky score, but there are a few surprises this time around; audiences will meet a new addition to "The Nutcracker" with the introduction of Hans, an apprentice to the toymaker Drosselmeyer.

Performances will be through Sunday, Dec. 11, and then again from Friday, Dec. 16, to Sunday, Dec. 18. Weekend matinee performances will include arts and crafts activities, the story of the Nutcracker with Mrs. Claus and a Braum's milk and cookies reception with the dancers. Tickets are available here.