After years of drought, the ranks at Maine State Ballet are overflowing with talented male dancers. This year, Maine State’s “Nutcracker” cast includes more than 20 male dancers, ranging in age from 4 to 40-plus. Many have been dancing for years – locally, in national ballet companies and on Broadway. Others are newcomers to dance but have extensive theater experience. “The Nutcracker” will be performed by Maine State Ballet Nov. 24 to Dec. 2 at Merrill Auditorium in Portland. Showtimes are at 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24; at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25; at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30; at 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1; and at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2. Tickets are available through PortTix at 842-0800. For more information on Maine State Ballet programs, visit www.mainestateballet.org.