Moscow Ballet is looking for students to perform with the company for its perennial classic Nutcracker in multiple locations across 22 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces. These openings are a unique opportunity for young dancers to gain audition and performance experience with a professional company at a young age. The company is looking to fill the following positions:

• 12 Party Guests (ages 8-11): 6 girls and 6 boys (or girls dressed as boys)
• 10 Mice (ages 8-11 or 12): No taller than 5’
• 12 Little Snowflakes (ages 7, 8 and 9): Must have ballet training
• 12 Angels (ages 8 to 11): Graduated heights from smallest to tallest; No taller than 5’
• 4 Butterflies: Older, taller girls from 12 to early teens; Off Pointe unless very strong on pointe.
• ACT II Variations: Corps de ballet with company soloists. No taller than 5’2”.
• Spanish: 2 young dancers ages 8-10; 2 older dancers ages 12-16 Pointe optional
• Chinese: 2 young dancers ages 8-10; 2 older dancers ages 12 –early teens Pointe optional
• Russian: 2 young dancers ages 8 – 10; 2 older dancers ages 10 –early teens (allegro dancers)
• Arabian: 2 older dancers ages 12 -16 (Involves floor work) Pointe optional
• French: 2 young dancers ages 7- 8

To see details and requirements and schedule an audition in a U.S. town near you, visit http://www.nutcracker.com/Audition_Dates.php and follow the simple instructions to register. Canadian auditionees, visit http://www.nutcracker.com/Audition_Dates.php?canada=y.

Update 8/17/11:  Check out this article, out yesterday, about young dancers performing with the company in Romeo & Juliet and other ballets.