A new teacher at the Arlington School of Dance, Joan Oxentenko’s advanced tap class will perform “Feels Like Christmas” at the upcoming Christmas show to be presented at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Byrnes Performing Arts Center, 18821 Crown Ridge Blvd., in Arlington. Along with her students, she will be dancing throughout the show which the school’s students and staff are planning.

The program is packed with traditional favorites, said dance school owner Becky Oesch. “We’ve got a tribute to The Nutcracker, an elegant version of “Ave’ Maria” performed by the advanced ballet students, and a touching and lyrical dance performed to “Silent Night,” Oesch said. More lively dances include “Happy Elf” and “I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas.”

Oxentenko brings many years of excellent training, study and performance to her classes, Oesch said. Trained by the renowned ballet teacher, Dorothy Fisher, Oxentenko performed with Fisher’s Regional Dance America company, The Dorothy Fisher Concert Dancers and she participated in masterclasses from many of the country’s best teachers, including David Howard of New York.

Star Energy Performing Company will an important feature of the program and they will also be performing at Lights of Christmas on Dec. 22 at 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. in the Joyland Concert Hall.

Pre-show entertainment includes a short pointe shoe demonstration and holiday songs sung by ballet teacher Dean Speer.

Another highlight to this year’s show is a Nutcracker Christmas tree raffle prize, a four-foot pre-lit tree adorned with Nutcracker ornaments including Clara’s ballet slippers, snowflakes and a peacock. Tickets are $2 and the winner will be announced at the show.

Admission is $7 with kids 5 and under free and tickets will be available at the show or in advance at the dance school on Third Street and French Avenue.

The Arlington School of Dance is currently accepting new students. For information see the Web site at www.arlingtondance.com or call 360-435-4541.