The tale of "Cinderella" is one that has been told for generations in books big and small, in animated Disney movies and on stages around the world. It's not often, however, that the inspiring poverty-to-royalty story is told through the art of ballet - especially in St. Joseph.

But State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara, Calif., will bring the timeless fairy tale to life at 8 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Missouri Theater.

"It is such a great experience for St. Joe to get something like this because we don't get the Broadway shows," says Sara Root, ballet instructor at the Dance Arts Center of St. Joseph. "You have to go to Kansas City to see 'Wicked' or any ballet. So the fact that they wanted to come to St. Joe is a huge thing for our city."

The renowned professional ballet company promises a performance that will blend innovative movement, music, lighting, scenery and acting while honoring classical training, style and tradition. So even though the pointes, plies and pirouettes will be on full display, the audience can expect a few surprises and some amazing visuals.

"It's a lovely, elegant production," says Christina Lund, executive director for the Performing Arts Association. "And the special effects in this presentation are amazing. The pumpkin actually transforms into a stagecoach on stage."

Many versions of "Cinderella" are driven by musical numbers and dialogue, but the fairy tale actually is a perfect fit for ballet. For example, Prince Charming leaps for joy when he falls in love. Through physical antics and facial expressions, the evil stepsisters subtly, but menacingly, demean Cinderella and absurdly flirt with the prince. Even a group of owls can show just how terrorizing they can be with a few stiff staccato movements.

"I think the ballet provides some unique twists," Lund says. "Various characters that are more behind the scenes really have a chance to come alive in the stage performance."

What may be more impressive than the production itself is State Street's dedication to educate and introduce a new generation to ballet. State Street will hold a private performance for local students as well as four workshops throughout the area next week.

The ballet company also will work with 34 local elementary, middle and high school dancers to complete the cast of characters. Most of the young performers will play the roles of mice, butterflies, birds, fairies and other woodland creatures.

"I think it's a good experience, especially for the younger girls that are in it, to get to work with international dancers," says dancer Taylor Blevins, a senior at Benton High School.

Many of the student dancers heard the name "Cinderella" and jumped at the chance to audition. Others say they wanted try something different than the usual competitions. Either way, working with a professional ballet company is something they can take with them for the rest of their lives.

"I keep telling these guys that it's really good on resumes," Root says.

The student ballet group has been rehearsing for about an hour every Saturday at the Dance Arts Center of St. Joseph. As the big show nears, the tension and enthusiasm builds.

"It's a little exciting and a little intimidating," admits Paige Musser, a seventh grader at Bode Middle School.

Tickets for "Cinderella" still are available and range from $10 to $50, with a special balcony seating for two for $30. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Performing Arts Association at 279-1225 or visit www.saintjosephperformingarts.org.