Behind-the-scenes secrets of the Nutcracker in NYC (VIDEO)

Even for those who have never had the privilege of watching the Nutcracker live, the story and outstanding music of this famous ballet has still wriggled its way into our holiday consciousness. Of all the performances of this holiday classic, there is perhaps none so spectacular as Nutcracker at Lincoln Centre in New York City.

But this performance, now in its 64th year, takes a lot of work! From a Christmas tree that weighs a ton (literally) to 50-year-old set pieces to 50 pounds of fake snow, this show is a handful. But, alas, the show must go on.

Watch the video below to see more about the show that 90 dancers, 62 musicians, and 32 stagehands work so hard to put on for their audiences every year.