Local dancers invited to audition for The Nutcracker with Ballet Des Moines

Fairfield — A beloved holiday tradition is returning to Fairfield, and local dancers are invited to be part of the magic. Ballet Des Moines will hold open auditions for The Nutcracker on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, at Fairfield Arts & Convention Center.

Young performers ages 5 and up will have the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside Ballet Des Moines’ professional company in a full-scale production of The Nutcracker, with three performances scheduled for Dec. 5 and 6 at the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center.

“We’re thrilled to once again bring this cherished production to our stage,” said Lindsay Bauer, Executive Director of the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center. “This is a unique chance for local youth to experience the joy and discipline of ballet while collaborating with a professional company in a truly magical performance.”

Audition Schedule (based on age as of Oct. 1):

Ages 5—6: 10 a.m. check-in / 10:15—10:45 a.m. audition

Ages 7—9: 10:30 a.m. check-in / 11:00—11:45 a.m. audition

Ages 10—12: 11:30 a.m. check-in / 12:00—1 p.m. audition

Ages 13+: 12:45 p.m. check-in / 1:15—2:15 p.m. audition (includes optional pointe section)

The participation fee is $145 per dancer, which covers rehearsals, costuming, and a digital video of the performance. Scholarships are available, and no dancer will be turned away due to financial need.

Rehearsals will take place on Sundays in Fairfield beginning in late October or early November, led by Ballet Des Moines teaching artists. Dancers are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances.

All dancers should arrive in ballet attire and bring a 4x6 headshot (casual snapshots are fine). For full details and to register, visit balletdesmoines.org/fairfield-nutcracker-auditions.

For more information about the auditions, contact Erin Arndorfer, Company Manager at Ballet Des Moines, at erin@balletdesmoines.org.