The Mendocino Ballet celebrates the 40th anniversary of “The Nutcracker,” opening this Friday, at Mendocino College Center Theater. Director/choreographer Esther Hansen will be directing the show for her first time. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 19-20, with 2 p.m. matinees Saturday and Sunday. Find more information on the Mendocino Ballet Facebook page.