(CONTRIBUTED)

HUNTSVILLE – Steps of Faith Performing Arts Center will present “Narnia: A Christmas Ballet” as its second annual holiday show on Dec. 14.

Performance times are 2 and 7 p.m. at Lee Lyric Theater, 2500 Meridian St. in Huntsville.

The classic tale follows Lucy, Peter, Edmund and Susan as they journey through the wardrobe. They encounter adventures in Narnia and fight the White Witch and her minions.

“We wanted to bring another quality Christmas ballet to Huntsville. This story is a family favorite,” center director Amanda Gilmore said. The show allows “a creative way to tell others about Jesus Christ during the Christmas season.”

Renowned dancer and choreographer Marc Wayne of Kansas City is appearing in a special guest role as Aslan. “Father Christmas from the North Pole will be playing himself,” GIlmore said.

Madison actors Charity Sweeney and Kacie Shrum will portray Lucy and Peter, respectively. The cast includes John Bozeman, Athens (Mr. Tumnus); Hannah Swanner, Huntsville (Jadis the White Witch); Haley Schumann, Hazel Green (Edmond) and Katelyn Kingham, Meridianville (Susan).

Gilmore and Nicole Onuszkanycz are directing and producing.

Having out-of-town guest artists has presented the most rewards and challenges. They arrive in town only three days before the show and must be ready to rehearse immediately.

The guest artists “are so wonderful and such professionals. It always goes over smoothly,” Gilmore said. “It’s also a great experience for our company dancers to dance with these professionals and learn how much hard work and commitment it takes to put on a quality production.”

Owned by Heath and Amanda Gilmore, Steps of Faith has studios in Madison at 7495 Wall Triana and in Meridianville at 299 Bolling Road. “We believe it’s important to include quality music and modest costumes in every class,” Amanda said. Dance Masters of America has certified Steps of Faith.

Tickets to the Narnia ballet are $10, with group rates available for churches and groups.

For tickets or more information, call 256-828-STEP (7837), email to info@mystepsoffaith.com or visit mystepsoffaith.com, Facebook/sofpac or youtube.com/user/StepsOfFaithPAC.