THE Russian State Ballet and Opera House returns for its annual UK tour with a dazzling production of the most famous ballet in the world - The Nutcracker.

Directed and choreographed by former Bolshoi Ballet soloist, Konstantin Uralsky, the distinguished company comes to Carlisle's Sands Centre on Saturday, November 17, with an impressive cast and orchestra with more than 30 musicians.

Based on The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written by E T A Hoffmann, the ballet tells the story of Marie, a rather sad little girl, whose godfather, Drosselmeyer, gives her a nutcracker doll as a present on Christmas Eve. When midnight strikes, the world transforms itself into the wintry glitter of Christmas Eve. Toys come alive, the Mouse-king and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and all travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins. The ultimate fairytale where goodness and beauty triumph, the lavish production includes snow flurries, Christmas treats, princes, love, victories and defeats, all to Tchaikovsky’s rousing score.

Producer Alexej Ignatow, of Amande Concerts Limited, which has co-ordinated the UK tour, said the company was constantly on the lookout for new challenges, to ensure that its opera and ballet audiences get a chance to experience a wide spectrum of classic pieces. He added: "We aim to deliver top quality productions every year and make new converts wherever we go”.

Box office 01228-633753.