NUTCRACKER COMMUNITY CAST

What makes this Nutcracker different?

• ​"The Nutcracker & the World’s Fair" is an original Ballet 314 production!

• You will join Clara and her sisters on an adventure through the unique sights, sounds, and sweets of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. ​

 

What is the cost to audition?

• Open audition fees are $20-$25

• Masterclass/Audition fees are $20-$30

• You can pay this fee online or bring cash/check made payable to Ballet 314.

 

When is the performance and where?​

• Nutcracker | December 11-13, 2026 | Edison Theatre

• Midsummer | June 4-5, 2027 | Touhill Performing Arts Center

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What is Midsummer?

• Midsummer is our new storyballet and it's a re-imagining of Shakespeare's most popular comedy "A Midsummer's Night's Dream". Our version will take place in a whimsical Missouri-centered fairy land. 

 

What if I am only interested in The Nutcracker?

• You will only be considered for both productions, if you marked "Yes" on your audition paperwork. If you change your mind at any point, please send us an email. 

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When will I get my Midsummer role?

• We will hold 1 open audition in January ‘27 for Midsummer community cast. Nutcracker Cast members also participating in Midsummer will be asked to attend this placement audition in January ‘27 at no additional cost.

• Midsummer auditionees will be asked to confirm their participation in by February 5th.

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What should I wear?

•  For auditions and rehearsals, dancers should wear their hair secured away from their face and appropriate ballet/dance attire, such as a leotard/fitted shirt, tights/athletic pants, and ballet shoes. Dancers ages 12 and older may also bring their pointe shoes for auditions.

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When do the students rehearse?

• All rehearsals will take place on Sunday afternoons. September 13th (Central) & September 20th (DPA) will be our first rehearsal day for most roles!  

• They will take place in two locations:

  • Central Studio in the Central West End with Mr. Robert and Ms. Marcela or at Devine Performing Arts in Wildwood with Mrs. Rachel and Ms. Ashley

  • Parents/Dancers can pick their preferred location during registration. Please be aware that different roles rehearse in different locations.

• Midsummer rehearsals will take place on Sundays. You can expect a similar rehearsal schedule but further information will be shared after Nutcracker.

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What is the cost to participate in this Nutcracker?

• Youth and adult cast have a $225 participation fee.

• Families with two or more participants will receive a discount of 15% off the final total.

• There will be a discounted bundle price offered if the participant decides to perform in both Nutcracker & Midsummer. 

 

What is included in this fee?

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$225 participation fee for Youth and Adult Cast Members Includes:​

• 10 Weeks of Coaching: Receive personalized coaching from our expert directors and rehearsal assistants, designed to elevate your performance skills.

• Costumes*: All performers' costumes will be provided and tailored to fit by our wardrobe team. *Does not include performance undergarments and required shoes.*

• Exclusive Class with the Company: Participants 18+ are invited to take ballet class alongside Ballet 314's professional dancers during dress rehearsals and performances. Participants under the age of 18+ will take class from a Ballet 314 company member.

• Youth Performance Mentorship Workshop: Young performers will benefit from an intimate workshop experience with Ballet 314's own professional company members regarding backstage etiquette, stage makeup and hair, etc.

• Cast T-Shirt: Cast members can look forward to getting their t-shirts signed by fellow performers and members of the professional company!

• Individual Professional Photograph in Costume: All participants will have a professional photo taken in costume to encapsulate their Nutcracker experience.

• Performance Streaming Link*: Unlimited access to video streams of both casts following the Nutcracker performance. Relieve the magic anytime you wish with this exclusive benefit! *Video links will be sold at $35/cast following the production.  

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Do you have scholarships?

• Yes, every year we have need-based scholarships! Once you register for an audition, we will send you the application

 

I auditioned and want to participate, what do I do next?

• If you decide to join us as a cast member, please sign your performer agreement by September 5th and pay the rehearsal/costuming fee by the first rehearsal on September 13th (Central) & September 20th (DPA).

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