Nothing says holiday magic like The Nutcracker. More iconic than Santa himself, this legendary show epitomizes the season, from snowflakes to sugarplums. So if you’re feeling more like Scrooge than Buddy the Elf, maybe it’s time for immersion in a Christmas classic. The Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida is doing their rendition of the timeless tale, all to Tchaikovsky’s memorable score. Step into little Clara’s ballet slippers as she falls into the dreamy world of nutcracker princes and sugarplum fairies. Romance! Intrigue! Mouse kings! From falling snow to growing Christmas trees, enchantments abound for young and old alike — everything you need to escape reality for a while and embrace the spirit of the season. Check your cynicism at the door. The show runs Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center (3385 NE 188th St., Aventura). Tickets cost $40 each. Visit aventuracenter.org or call 305-466-8002
Sat., Dec. 13, 7 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 14, 3 p.m., 2014