TOWSON, Md. —

Rehearsals are underway for an upcoming performance of a holiday favorite — with a very special twist.

The Mid-Atlantic Youth Ballet's "Unmistakably Maryland Nutcracker" showcases the music and story of the holiday classic, but with every pirouette, the dancers are bringing to life a performance unlike any other.

At their studio in Towson, the ballet's dancers are preparing for their performances on Dec. 5 and 6 at Towson University's Stephens Hall Theatre. It's a tradition that started 19 years ago but changed to a uniquely Maryland flair during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout the performance, theatergoers will see everything from a Black-eyed Susan to a Smith Island cake, an Oriole bird, a Baltimore Hon and, of course, crabs.

"We have Poe's Raven, we have lemon stick

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