From left, Alexis Cary, Eli Miles and Dylan Candela dance in the Little Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker,” accompanied by a 55-piece orchestra and 75 dancers.

ASTORIA — Little Ballet Theatre’s performance of the holiday classic “The Nutcracker” will be staged for a 48th year at Astoria High School Auditorium, with three performances planned for this weekend.

The show opens at 2 p.m. Saturday, followed by an evening show at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee.

Three dancers will take principal roles: Eli Miles portrays the mischievous Fritz, who is envious of the nutcracker that his sister Clara, danced by Alexis Cary, received as a gift.

The happy mechanical doll is portrayed by Dylan Candela.

A 55-piece orchestra, conducted by Cory Pedersen, and 75 dancers of the Little Ballet Theatre with guest artists from the Eugene Ballet feature in the show.

Tickets are available online and at the door one hour before the performance. For more information, visit www.maddoxdancers.com.