The Nutcracker 2026
The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory is proud to present The Nutcracker each Thanksgiving weekend.
Dancer Auditions will take place Sunday, August 30.
We are also holding adult auditions for Party Parents and Ensemble on Sunday, September 20 from 9 AM – 11 AM in Studio 1AB. Conservatory students that are 18+ and parents of Nutcracker cast members are invited to audition.
Dear Dancers and Families,
It is my great pleasure to welcome you and your child to The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts’ production of The Nutcracker. I am excited about the ballet and the collaborative efforts made with The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts and The Hanover Theatre Conservatory Orchestra. I have great expectations for this production.
Your child has been cast according to his or her skill level and ability. In The Nutcracker, all roles are important to the translation or storytelling of the ballet. The role that your child is cast in demonstrates and showcases their particular talent. It is my hope that everyone who participates in this production will get a sense of professionalism, will learn and appreciate the ballet-making process and most of all have fun and enjoy themselves. I thank you for your interest and participation. I am looking forward to meeting with all of you.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Agbay
Artistic Director of The Nutcracker
In order to be considered for an audition, dancers must meet the following criteria:
- Age 7+ by Labor Day (Monday, September 7, 2026)
- Able to attend ALL mandatory dates listed on page 7 and 8 of the Audition Guide, including all of Production Week
- Dancers aged 10+ must be enrolled in a ballet class at a dance studio
Auditions
| Time | Age Group |
|---|---|
| 9 AM - 11 AM | 13+ |
| 11:30 AM - 1 PM | 10-12 |
| 1:15 PM - 3 PM | 7-9 |
| What we assess: Technique, skill level, ability | |
| How we assess it: A technical ballet class where dancers work on barre exercises, center practice, and combinations en diagonale. | |
Callbacks
| Time | Callback |
|---|---|
| 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM | C |
| 4:45 PM - 6 PM | B |
| 6:15 PM - 7:30 PM | A* |
| What we assess: Technique, skill level, ability, talent, showmanship | |
| How we assess it: Learn and perform choreography sections from The Nutcracker | |
| *There will be an optional workshop for Group A callbacks to preview and practice assessed choreography from 3:15-4:30, prior to callbacks. | |
Experience the Magic
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