The classic tale of the Nutcracker will be presented this Saturday and Sunday by the Georgia Youth Ballet, directed by Magdalena Maury. Performances are at 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Creekside High School Auditorium in Fairburn.

According to Maury, her company draws on "a lot of humor" in its execution of the traditional Christmas ballet. "We really want to entertain the audience," she said.

Another twist in the Youth Ballet's production is having "Clara" dance the pas de deux with the Cavalier.

Principle dancers include David Gant as the Cavalier, Randi Loudermilk and Sara Hall as alternating Claras and Hall and Emily Lannan alternating Sugar Plum Fairies.

"Our principle dancers are students who have evolved to this level," Maury said.

The Sunday matinee will allow scouts to take a backstage tour and earn a commemorative patch for attending the show.

The Fayetteville-based Youth Ballet is a nonprofit organization geared to supporting the arts and nurturing serious dancers, Maury said. The company is a member of the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association.