The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker has long been viewed as an introductory theatrical performance for children, but that assumes the children in question love ballet. Sarah Brandt has updated the story for the child who isn't mad about dance, with music and lyrics by Neal Richardson. Brandt's The Nutcracker tells the story of Marie, a young girl who's moved with her family to a new town. Now she's facing a Christmas with no friends, but at least her Godfather Dross is looking out for her. He arrives on Christmas Eve with a special gift for her — a nutcracker, which he says is more than it seems to be. During the night Marie discovers that the Nutcracker has come to life — and more surprises await her if she agrees to help him. The Imaginary Theatre Company presents a modern Nutcracker at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday (December 16 to 22) at Nerinx Hall's Heagney Theatre (530 East Edgar Road; www.repstl.org). Tickets are $8.