If it has felt like a long time since you’ve seen “The Nutcracker” on the stage of Vashon Center for the Arts (VCA), you’re not incorrect. It’s been two years since VCA students have performed the ballet on the stage of Kay White Hall, due to the pandemic.

However, “The Nutcracker” is back for live performances this year. Vadne White, who is Vashon Center for Dance’s director of ballet, along with dance instructors Kathy Bonner, Gwen Burwell, Elise Ericksen, Kate Guinee, Madeline Morser, Sana Tepley, Tricia Thompson, Arianna Vickers and Vanesa Wylie, have created a rich and whimsical production that tells the story of a little girl’s dream come to life.

This year’s production has also made changes to protect the cast and theatergoers. For the first time, “The Nutcracker” will feature a cast of dancers who are all 12 and older and vaccinated. A matinee performance will also be live-streamed for free, so all will be able to attend.

“The Nutcracker” has two performances — 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, and a matinee performance at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12. Tickets are available for purchase at vashoncenterforthearts.org.