“It’s a bigger show but a very exciting show,” Mouzafarov said of the production featuring 70 dancers from ages 3 to early 20s. The ballet brings to life the powerful oratorio composed for Easter by George Frideric Handel, although often sung by choirs at Christmas.

One of the most popular and oft-performed musical works, it is beloved as a testament of the faith of Christians through the ages.

“The Messiah” is unique in that its text is largely taken word for word from the King James version of the Bible, with additional text from the Cloverdale Psalter, a poetic translation of Psalms. According to a description of the oratorio, it traces the story of Jesus Christ from the need for a Savior during the fall of man to his triumphant return at the end of days. It includes his birth, death on a cross and resurrection.

Mouzafarov credits Tonya Lewis, who has served as the studio’s costume and set designer for more than 30 years, with persuading him to again produce “The Messiah,” which the studio had performed in 2015. He said he agreed because the oratorio’s scriptural story is so compelling and he knew Lewis’ skill in creating elaborate and beautiful costumes would bring a level of professionalism to the show.

Submitted Photo Dancers with Rinat Mouzafarov’s Institute of Dance and Ballet Theatre present a scene from the “The Messiah,” to be performed May 9 and 10. From left are: front, Kourtney Klein, Kimberly Klein, Addison Pringle, Ali Haas, Sarai McCormick, Linnea Gillis; back, Isaac Siembida, Carter Klein and Noah Robson. Photo by Ronald Rouse.

Mouzafarov said he also knew the difficult choreography would be challenging for his students, but he noted they have worked exceptionally hard in taking on a production not typically attempted by such young dancers. Their dedication has been evident in the many extra hours of practice, he said.

Jesus is portrayed in “The Messiah” by Karter Klein. Addison Pringle has a prominent role in the production, including her performances in three solos.

Isaac Siembida dances the role of a shepherd, with the studio’s youngest students portraying the sheep. He and Noah Robson are featured as Roman soldiers, and Siembida also performs with Ali Haas in a duet to “O Death.”

Mouzafarov choreographed each of the 27 musical pieces featured in the production, which will be presented in three acts. With professional stage backdrops and the music of a British orchestra and singers, the ballet production brings an uplifting story and a reprieve from the current cares of a war-torn and troubled world, Mouzafarov said.

Performing between some of the musical numbers will be a string quartet featuring Dr. Jon Rumney, Dr. Genevieve Kahrilas, Abby Walker Gaskill and Dr. Erik Anderson.

The Saturday performance begins at 7 p.m. The Sunday performance is at 2 p.m. Tickets are available from Art Main Downtown, Eckroth Music or at the door.