CHICAGO (WLS) — The Joffrey Ballet will hold open auditions for the children’s cast of “The Nutcracker” next month.

“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 the Joffrey’s’Nutcracker’in the past or not,” the ballet company said Monday.

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Audition times based on dancer criteria

5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5: 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 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7.

10:30 to 11 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 7: Auditions for male-identifying dancers ages 10 – 18 on audition day, minimum height 4’7,” maximum height 5’8″

11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7: 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 p.m.

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 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6: 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.
Ages 12-18 on audition day, dancers of all genders, no minimum or maximum height requirements.

Video submissions close at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6.

Space is limited, and pre-registration is required at least one day in advance of auditions. In-person forms will not be available.

Auditions will be held at Joffrey’s downtown studios in Joffrey Tower, 10 E. Randolph St.

Visit joffrey.org to register.

The video in the player above is from an earlier report.