WHAT: The Rio Hondo Dance Collective will present its sixth annual holiday program, staging a contemporary version of “The Nutcracker” with 27 dancers from Rio Hondo College as well as 70 community dancers from five area schools and the Rio Hondo College Child Development Center.

WHEN: 2 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11

WHERE: Rio Hondo College Wray Theater, 3600 Workman Mill Road, Whittier

DETAILS: The Dance Collective is an ensemble of advanced students in the Rio Hondo Dance Program who are pursuing careers as dancers, choreographers or in another aspect of the field. This is the Collective’s second year of engaging area students in the holiday show. Participating schools include Dean Shively Middle School, Hadley School, Montebello High School, Edgewood High School and Esteban Torres High School.

The production is streamlined to one hour to create a more enjoyable experience for parents with small children. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door; children 5 and under are free. Proceeds benefit the Collective and its participation in the 2017 American College Dance Association, a national program of workshops and performances for U.S. colleges and universities.

The event will include food and gifts for purchase, including homemade tamales, plus a visit from Santa Claus.

RESERVATIONS: Email Dr. Alyson Cartagena, acartagena@riohondo.edu