Experience the tradition and artistry of the “Nutcracker,” performed with a live orchestra close to home.

Emerald Ballet Theatre (EBT) and the Rainier Symphony bring this holiday tradition to the Eastside and Northshore communities for two weekends: Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13 at the Northshore Performing Arts Center (NPAC) in Bothell.

Viktoria Titova, EBT artistic director, traveled around the world as a ballerina with the Bolshoi Theatre Grigorivich Company before putting down her roots in the Seattle area.

EBT’s production draws on this rich classical Russian tradition where Tchaikovsky’s music and original choreography for Marius Petipa’s ballet originated. Titova performs as the Sugar Plum Fairy with Oleg Gorbolouv, former soloist with Pacific Northwest Ballet, as Cavalier, along with other regional professionals.

Every seat in the NPAC theater provides intimate views of the stage. EBT offers five performances, including four matinees which are ideal for families.

The “Nutcracker” will feature live music and handpainted sets.

NPAC is located at 18125 92nd Ave., N.E., Bothell.

Nutcracker performances are slated for 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 5, 2 p.m. Dec. 6, 2 p.m. Dec. 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13.

Ticket prices are $30 for adults, $25 for senior citizens and $15 for youth seats.

Tickets are available at www.npacf.org , www.emeraldballet.org or (425) 883-3405.