The Joffrey Ballet holds open auditions for the Children's Cast of Christopher Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker at its downtown studios in Joffrey Tower, 10 East Randolph Street, Thursday, September 7 and Sunday, September 10, with a video submission audition for a specific role that closes at 9PM on Saturday, September 9. All students in the Chicagoland area with dance experience that meet casting criteria are welcome to audition. This annual audition is for all young dancers, from any studio or school, interested in auditioning for Christopher Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker, whether they have participated in Joffrey’s Nutcracker in the past or not. The audition will be directed by staff from The Joffrey Ballet. For full audition details visit joffrey.org/nutcracker-childrens-cast/
Audition Times Based on Dancer Criteria
Thursday, September 7 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | General Audition #1
· Audition for dancers of all genders age 8 or older on audition day
· Maximum height 4’7” (no minimum height)
· Dancers may be asked to return to audition on Sunday, September 10 from 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday, September 10 | 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | General Audition #2
· Auditions for male-identifying dancers ages 10 - 18 on audition day
· Minimum height 4’7”, maximum height 5’8”
Sunday, September 10 | 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM | General Audition #3
· Auditions for female and non-binary-identifying dancers ages 10 - 18 on audition day
· Minimum height 4’7”, maximum height 5’6”
· Dancers may be released before 4:30 PM
The age and height parameters are strict and students who do not fall within the parameters will not be admitted into the audition.
Anytime through Saturday, September 9 at 9:00 PM
Diverse movers are encouraged to submit a video audition for the role of Worker Child, performed in a non-motorized wheelchair specially crafted for The Nutcracker. Dance training is not required. Dancers should be comfortable waiting for long periods of time and performing silently in a group setting on a stage with bright lights, loud music, and a large audience.
Video submissions close at 9:00 PM on Saturday, September 9
· Ages 12-18 on audition day.
· Dancers of all genders.
· No minimum or maximum height requirements.
Registration
Space is limited and pre-registration is required at least one day in advance of your audition. In-person forms will not be available. Registration form can be found here. If you have questions about pre-registration, please email nccadmin@joffrey.org.
About Joffrey’s The Nutcracker
Wheeldon’s modern masterpiece rings in the holidays. Follow young Marie and the Nutcracker Prince on a whirlwind journey through the 1893 World’s Fair—a dazzling spectacle of sights, sounds and enchantment. This annual tradition celebrates the magic of the season and the rich cultural heritage of Chicago like no other.
Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. and by telephone at 312.386.8905 or online at joffrey.org