It’s that time of year again. Along with the usual signs of Christmas fast approaching such as holiday shoppers and wreath-lined lanes, BalletMet Columbus is preparing for its annual production of the Nutcracker. But this production is not usual by far.

A new production this year includes different sets, choreography and costumes. Lynn Holbrook, costume shop manager for BalletMet, said although creator David Nixon’s production has been a large undertaking, the result will be well worth the work.

“The 1992 production was based largely on composer Tchaikovsky and that Russian atmosphere,” she said. “The scenery was somewhat repressed in those productions.”

The updated version, set in the 1880’s as a festive Victorian Christmas features a wealthy family surrounded by the ballet’s usual characters, such as the Sugar Plum Fairy, Clara and Ratsputtle.

“Most of the character’s costumes have undergone immense changes in style, except for the large mice costumes and the soldier costumes.” said Holbrook.

In the midst of last minute preparation, the company’s costume shop is home to blossoming flower tutus made out of silk, metal, and wire in vibrant floral hues that will give the production a bright look. In a corner of the shop, a glitzy lavender gown hangs in wait for the Sugar Plum Fairy to wear.

Holbrook and her staff not only aid in costume design and production, they have also traveled to New York to find material appropriate for the production.

“Probably in just labor alone, some of these costumes can cost around $2000 to make,” Holbrook said.

Shop employees have been working diligently not only on costumes but also deciding make-up and hairstyles for the dancers.

“We just got word of the new production happening last April,” she said. “It’s been a mad dash since then to get things done.”

Holbrook said designing costumes for ballet is worlds apart from designing costumes for theater productions.

“Dancers need lightweight and flexible apparel,” she said. “That’s why we try to steer away from using wigs too often.”

The new production is set to dazzle audiences, beginning Dec. 8 in the Ohio Theatre. Tickets range from $13 to $52 and the performances will continue until Dec. 29.