The Joffrey Ballet is pleased to present Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s brilliantly reimagined version of “The Nutcracker” during the 2024–2025 season.

The information below will walk you through the entire audition process, step by step – we encourage you to read all of it so that you know what to expect!  If you find yourself with questions at the end, please email [email protected].

Audition Information

All in-person auditions take place at Joffrey Tower, located at 10 East Randolph Street, Chicago, IL. 

General Audition #1

Friday, September 6, 2024
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Requirements

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 8 from 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM

General Audition #2

Sunday, September 8, 2024
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM 

Requirements

Male-identifying dancers
Ages 10 - 18 on audition day 
Minimum height 4’7”, maximum height 5’8” 
 

General Audition #3

Sunday, September 8, 2024
11:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Requirements

Female and non-binary-identifying dancers
Ages 10 - 18 on audition day
Minimum height 4’7”, maximum height 5’6” 

Dancers will be provided with a break to eat lunch. Dancers may be released before 4:30 PM. 

Worker Child Auditions

Video submissions accepted through Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 9:00 PM

Requirements

Dancers of all genders
Ages 12 - 18
Dancers of any height
 
Children with disabilities are encouraged to submit a video audition for the role of Worker Child, performed in a non-motorized wheelchair specially crafted for The Nutcracker. 
 

 

 

Register to Audition

Please pre-register at least one day in advance of your audition. For more information about what to expect before, during, and after your audition, keep scrolling.

More Information and Requirements

Worker Child Video Audition

The role of Worker Child is designed for children with disabilities who use assistive mobility devices and those who do not require them.

Preparing to Audition

Students should arrive at Joffrey Tower dressed in their dancewear with hair already prepared, and a small bag for their shoes, warm-ups, lunch, and water.

Meetings, Rehearsals, Performances, and Conduct

The Joffrey’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” is a professional production and requires committed performers. See here for important dates and a note about conduct.

Roles in the Children’s Cast

Visit below for a comprehensive list of Children’s Cast roles.

An Interview with the Snow Babies (2023)