Ellington

A true rags-to-riches story, "Cinderella" has all the romance and angst perfect for ballet. The Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet presents its performance of a classic story March 3 at Jackson Academy's Performing Arts Center, 4908 Ridgewood Road.

"This production has all the necessary stage magic to mesmerize children, and a handsome enough quota of sly wit and inventive choreography to satisfy devoted ballet fans," Jennifer Beasley, artistic director, said in a statement.

The original choreography will feature guest artists Diana Gomez and Alfonso Martin, both with the Tulsa Ballet, in the lead roles. More than 50 dancers from the metro-Jackson area fill out the cast.

Show times on March 3 are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. A tea party with Cinderella and the cast will follow the 2 p.m. show. Tickets are $18 and $22. For information, you can visit http://www.msmetroballet.com or call 601-853-4508.