NUTCRACKER AUDITION FAQs
When and where are performances taking place?
Des Moines' only professional production of The Nutcracker will take place December 8-11 at Hoyt Sherman Place
My child turns five after the audition. Can they still audition?
Unfortunately, we ask that dancers are 5 years of age at the time of auditions.
Does my child/am I as a dancer learning actual choreography from The Nutcracker during the audition?
Our Nutcracker Rehearsal Director has created choreography for dancers of all levels. This choreography does not represent the actual role you/your child is being considered for within the Nutcracker production.
What if I can't attend the August audition?
We will make an alternate audition option available to those families who cannot make the August 27-28 auditions. Please email erin@balletdesmoines.org if you are unable to attend our audition and are interested in participating.
Is there a fee to participate?
Yes. In 2022, the participation fee for Ballet Des Moines' nutcracker performers is $125 including costumes, training, production costs, and a download link to a recording of a full performance featuring your child.
What if I can't afford the participation fee? Scholarships are available!
It is our policy that no student should be precluded from dancing at Ballet Des Moines for financial reasons. If the participation fee is out of reach for your family, please email erin@balletdesmoines.org for assistance and information about scholarships and other assistance programs.
Do I have to supply my own shoes and tights?
Yes. If your costume includes colored tights or shoes, BDM’s wardrobe department will coordinate the dying process.
When are rehearsals?
Rehearsals take place every Saturday, beginning early October.
What if I can't attend rehearsals every Saturday?
It is the responsibility of each student to ensure rehearsals leading up to The Nutcracker productions are a priority. However, we understand that some scheduling issues arise. Please discuss your availability and/or needs as early as they arise with our Nutcracker Rehearsal Director, Erin Arndorfer. She can be reached at erin@balletdesmoines.org.
How many/which performances will I be in?
The number of performances is dependent on the number of dancers auditioning and dancer availability, but dancers should plan up to 6 public performances and 1 school show.
What if I don't like my role?
All roles are loved equally by our audiences, however we understand that you may have had something else in mind. The professional staff at Ballet Des Moines provides strategic thought to ensuring the hundreds of dancers in The Nutcracker are placed in appropriate roles for their skill level. We do not allow for roles to be switched upon casting.
Can my child dance in multiple studio’s productions of The Nutcracker?
YES! We have taken into account community performances and rehearsal schedules in order to ensure as little conflict as possible. We would love the opportunity for your dancer to be on stage with our company professionals this December. If you have any questions regarding schedules, please contact our Nutcracker Rehearsal Director at erin@balletdesmoines.org.