'The Nutcracker' is coming

Spotlight Studios Youth Ballet of McCook, Nebraska, will present "The Nutcracker Ballet" on Friday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m., at Memorial Auditorium, West Fifth and C streets. Haiden Loop portrays "Clara" dancing with her new nutcracker gift; Maria Schaben portrays a friend dancing with her doll. The McCook production is directed by Lauren Phillips. Advance tickets are available at Movie House, Game On, Spotlight Studios and Brown's Shoe Fit for $8 each; tickets at the door will be $10. For more information, call (308) 345-4734. The studio plans a "Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party" and a meet-and-greet with the cast Saturday, Dec. 5, at 4 p.m., at Spotlight Dance Studio at West First and C streets; tickets are $5 each and are available only at the Studio. Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited.