Our Clara, classic and clever

It’s the season when a very mysterious godfather sets all kinds of magic in motion: A Christmas tree grows through the roof. Toys turn into armies. Snowflakes dance. Coffee, tea and chocolate take human form. “The Nutcracker” casts its spell in many different ways on local stages this year -- some of them radical -- but two traditional versions this weekend provide an index to its classic values. Ballet Internationale of Indianapolis brings to Cal State L.A. a production steeped in Russian style and directed by former luminaries of the mighty Kirov Ballet. In contrast, the Westside Ballet showcases young artists in a sweet, clever interpretation that deftly merges British and American influences. Both stagings celebrate the love of Christmas, childhood and ballet -- focusing, as always, on a little girl awakening to the magic of her world and her dreams.

* Ballet Internationale “Nutcracker,” Luckman Fine Arts Complex, Cal State L.A., 5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles. 8 p.m. Friday. 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday. $50 to $65. (323) 343-6600.

* Westside Ballet “Nutcracker,” Smothers Theatre, Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 1:30 and 5 p.m. Sunday. $15 (children) to $25. (310) 828-6211.