The spirit of Christmas will dance across the stage of the Natchez City Auditorium this month in the form of dancers from the Christian ballet company Ballet Magnificat.

The Jackson-based ballet is returning to Natchez for the fifth year in a row, and local resident Carolyn Ridley, who organizes the event, said this year’s performance will be a special treat.

“It’s the first time for us to be able to offer a Christmas ballet and open the Christmas season in Natchez with Ballet Magnificat!, which is so special to us,” Ridley said.

Ballet Magnificat! has performed nationally and internationally in France, Italy, Honduras, Costa Rica, China and several other countries.

Tour Director Erin Beaver said “Most Incredible Christmas” is a family-centered show with a Broadway-style feel.

“It kind of has that Radio City Music Hall feel, not just a simple Christmas feel,” she said. “And it really touches on the most important part of Christmas, which is the hope we have in Jesus Christ.”

The performance will also include “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth,” which is an upbeat, Spanish-style dance performance, Beaver said.

The mission of Ballet Magnificat!, Beaver said, is to spread the word and love of God.

“Our desire is to glorify Jesus Christ in everything we do, so our hope is that the ballet would be worshipful and show the faith we have in Christ.”

Ridley said Ballet Magnificat! is not a traditional ballet and may surprise those who do not typically go to ballets.

“There’s nothing wrong with traditional ballet, but this is not typical ballet,” she said. “It’s a beautiful worship time. It’s a cross between ballet and interpretive dance with beautiful and inspiring music.”

The ballet, Ridley said, is a perfect outing for family and friends.

“I would encourage people to make it a couples’ night out or family night out,” she said. “It’s also perfect for a youth group.”

The profits from Ballet Magnificat! go to the Guardian Shelter, which serves battered women and children.

“This money stays in the community,” Ridley said. “It’s helping women. We see that on a day-to-day basis. It’s helping them with housing and clothing and whatever they need.”

Ballet Magnificat! is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 16 at the city auditorium.

Tickets are $15 and $12 each for groups of 10 or more and can be purchased by calling 601-442-0142.