NATCHEZ — After more than three decades of being nothing more than a simple wooden toy, the Nutcracker comes to life this weekend.

Natchez Ballet director Mignon Reid said after 32 years, it was time to make some big changes in the annual holiday production.

“The whole first act is different,” Reid said. “Instead of using a doll, we will have a live nutcracker.”

Natchez Ballet student Sami Dulam will dance the role of the first Nutcracker part.

Reid said by adding the Nutcracker role, many of the beginning scenes where a young girl named Clara receives the Nutcracker doll for Christmas have been expanded.

The role of Clara will be shared this year by Karly King and Rose Schwager.

It is a particularly special part for King, who watched her sisters Lauren and Jewel dance as Clara in previous Natchez ballet productions.

The new changes have greatly expanded the choreography for Clara’s part, Reid said.

“Clara’s part is bigger and has become more difficult than it ever has been in the past,” Reid. “We are fortunate to have two very skilled dancers to play the part.”

“The Nutcracker” is in its 32nd year and will be performed at 7 p.m. tonight and at 4 p.m. Saturday in the Natchez City Auditorium at 207 Jefferson St.

This year’s guest artists are Anthony Neumann and Lisa McKnight.

A Nutcracker Tea will be hosted on the grounds of the City Auditorium at 2 p.m. Saturday.

“The tea will be larger with more activities for children,” Reid said.

Tickets to the performance are $10 for ages 3-11 and $15 for ages 12 and up. Tickets are $10 for the tea. Tickets to both events are $18 for ages 3-11 and $22 for ages 12 and older.

Tickets are available at the Natchez Ballet Academy at 64 Homocitto St. and at natchezballet.com.