The 49th annual Nutcracker auditions will be August 21 & 22, 2026

Our beloved holiday tradition returns to the stage December 11–13, 2026, with a live orchestra presented by Bakersfield City Ballet and a cast of 150 dancers!

Auditions are by invitation only and open to dancers ages 6 and up* who have completed:

• 1 year of classes at Civic
• Participation in at least 1 Civic performance
• Class placement at a qualifying level determined by directors
• Dancers in level 1A-6A must dance a minimum of two (2) weeks during the Summer Session to be considered for The Nutcracker audition invite.

*Dancers of any age or level may be invited at the discretion of the directors.

Important reminders for invitees:

• You are auditioning to be part of the cast, not for a specific role.
• All cast members must accept ANY role assigned, including female dancers being cast as overture/party guest boy.
• A production fee will be due after casting is announced.
• Weekly rehearsals begin September 11-13, dress rehearsal and performance dates December 5–13. NO ONE will be excused from rehearsals November 20-21 or December 5-13, this includes illness.
• Participation requires full rehearsal attendance, regular class enrollment, and director approval for any appearance changes (hair cutting/coloring, piercings, tattoos).
• Some roles require daytime availability December 7–11.
• Conflicts with school or other programs must be addressed before auditioning.
• Vacations or extracurricular activities September 11 – December 13 need to be scheduled around rehearsals & performances.

We’re proud to offer this performance opportunity as part of our dancers’ growth and education. The audition experience itself is valuable, whether you are cast or not.