This weekend, the Mercyhurst dancers will present “Cinderella,” the well-known fairy tale based on the French folk tale, “The Little Glass Slipper.”

Performances are Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center.

There will also be a special preview performance on Friday at 4 p.m., with all tickets just $5 and only balcony seats available.

Dance department chair and artistic director Tauna Hunter is excited to be closing the department’s season with this ballet since they haven’t presented it since 2000.

“We are excited to bring it to life once again for the Erie community. I consider this the best way for families to introduce dance to their children,” Hunter said.

Those not familiar with classical ballets are sure to enjoy “Cinderella” because not only is everyone familiar with the story, but it is full of comedy, a bit of suspense and brings a happy ending.

Because all of the acting is done in what is referred to as mime, the actions of the stepsisters are exaggerated and all the more amusing.

The four season fairies, along with the fairy godmother, add a magical touch to transform Cinderella into the mysterious princess who appears at the ball, captivating the prince’s heart.

The three-act ballet, set to the music of Sergei Prokofiev, is a perfect length for families and younger children.

After each performance, a few characters will come out to the lobby to meet audience members, sign autographs and take photos.

Seniors Christopher Taddiken and Nicole Lyons will dance their final performances as Mercyhurst students as the prince and Cinderella.

The roles of the stepsisters, hilariously portrayed by seniors Sarah Mastrocola and Claire Hinde, are sure to keep audience members laughing.

Tickets are available by calling 824-3000 or visiting the PAC box office.