5 Things to Know Today, Dec. 10: The Nutcracker and More

1. The Brandon Ballet will present its annual production of "The Nutcracker" Dec. 10 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 11 at 2 and 5:30 p.m. at the Spoto High School auditorium, 8538 Eagle Palm Dr. Riverview. Experience the Brandon Ballet's full-length production featuring  guest professional artists, lavish costumes and scenery, a glorious score by Tchaikovsky and a timeless tale to be enjoyed by all ages. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors age 55 and older.

2. with the Tampa Bay Dance Theatre will present its annual production of "The Nutcracker" Saturday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 11 at 3 p.m. in the Riverview High School auditorium, 11311 Boyette Rd., Riverview. Enjoy this timeless classic and get into the spirit of the season. General admission is $15 and premium seating is $20. Tickets are available at www.tadance.com or by calling 813-571-0901.

3. will host its second annual Christmas Karaoke Party Saturday, Dec. 10 starting at 5:30 p.m. for residents age 16 and up. The event, on the RVR Horse Rescue property at 12611 Hayes Clan Rd., Riverview, will include a disc jockey, barbecue and bonfire. Residents should bring their own bottle and chairs or a blanket to sit on. Food and nonalcoholic beverages will be provided for $7 a plate. There will be a drawing and raffle prizes. Proceeds will benefit RVR Horse Rescue, which rescues neglected and abused horses. Stockings will be hung by each horse stall and visitors are welcome to bring carrots, horse treats, brushes and other items to stuff the stockings. For more information, call 813-500-1071 or visit rvrhorserescue.com.

4. The sights and sounds of Bethlehem at the time of the birth of Jesus will come alive during the third annual “Behold! The Lamb,” a living nativity at Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 10540 Browning Rd., Lithia, Saturday, Dec. 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. Residents can drop by any time during those hours for a tour. A golf cart will be available for guests with disabilities. Church members have come together to create costumes and scenes reminiscent of the town of Bethlehem leading up to the birth of Jesus. The evening includes free parking, free admission and festive refresments including cookies and drinks. For more information, contact Lamb of God Lutheran Church at 813-653-2354 or visit www.LambofGodLithia.org.

5. Kings Avenue Baptist Church has transformed the church grounds into the town of Bethlehem for its annual Walk Through Bethlehem, a free program for the community. The walk continues Dec. 10 from 4-10 p.m. and Dec. 11 from 4-9:30 p.m. Members of the church dress in period costumes and present the story of the birth of Jesus as residents tour the town. The event is free.