ODC Dance returns to Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Nov. 25 through Dec. 4 to perform its 19th annual holiday production of Margery Williams' classic children's tale, "The Velveteen Rabbit," in two enchanting acts.

Created by ODC co-artistic director KT Nelson in 1986, "The Velveteen Rabbit" has played to more than 300,000 people nationwide and has become a treasured Bay Area holiday tradition.

A loving and sophisticated interpretation of Margery Williams' classic 1922 children's tale choreographed by ODC's KT Nelson, "The Velveteen Rabbit" is about the powerful relationship between a boy and his stuffed rabbit, and the enduring power of love. Told from the perspective of a stuffed rabbit who wants nothing more than to become real, the story explores meaningful dualities appropriate for children and adults alike.

In this holiday classic, Nana, who stands 10-feet tall, oversees the toys that share the nursery with the Rabbit: a skin-horse, toy soldiers, a crocodile, dolls and, in the garden, a pack of real rabbits. Intended to encourage children to engage, create and imagine, the show is suitable for children ages 3 and up, and that includes the child in every adult.

"The Velveteen Rabbit" features ODC Dance's signature energetic and athletic dancing, recorded narration by legendary Bay Area clown Geoff Hoyle, colorful costumes and sets by famed children's illustrator Brian Wildsmith, and a score by renowned classical composer Benjamin Britten. Children will receive a free Velveteen Rabbit activity book at each performance. Ten talented children from the ODC School join the professional company in this production. The performance is suitable for ages 3 and up. Running time is 90 minutes including one intermission.

"The Velveteen Rabbit" regularly sells out at Yerba Buena, so early advance ticket purchase is recommended. Tickets can be obtained by contacting the Yerba Buena Box Office ($10-$15-$28-$38) at 415-978-2787, or purchased online at www.ybca.org.

The 2005 "The Velveteen Rabbit" season is presented by Target.

Following the Sunday, Nov. 27 performance, KT Nelson and the ODC dancers will host a Milk & Cookies Family Dance Party at the Yerba Buena Center's Forum. After savoring delicious holiday treats, kids of all ages have the opportunity to dance with the Rabbit and other characters from the show, and more! Tickets for this event are $10/person and can be purchased at the Yerba Buena Box Office. The Yerba Buena Center for the Arts is located 700 Howard at Third Street, San Francisco

Founded in 1971 by Artistic Director Brenda Way, ODC relocated to San Francisco in 1976. Known for its athleticism, passion and intellectual depth, the Company performs works by Brenda Way, KT Nelson and Kimi Okada, who are considered among the finest contemporary choreographers in America, for more than 50,000 people annually. In 34 years, ODC has performed for more than a million people in 34 states and 11 countries. ODC Dance's Co-Artistic Director KT Nelson, is the award-winning creator of "The Velveteen Rabbit," a longstanding Bay Area holiday tradition, which has played to over 300,000 people nationwide. ODC Dance, the Bay Area's premier contemporary performing arts institution, includes the award-winning ODC contemporary dance company, ODC Theater, a producing/presenting organization and ODC School, a contemporary dance training institution.

Group discounts for 10 or more people are available by calling Linda Graham at (415) 346-7805. Discounts are not available for weekday matinees.