"Nutcracker" FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) :

Who is eligible to participate in the Nutcracker?

Any dancer over the age of 3 (even beginners) may participate. Casting auditions will be held Sunday, October 3rdand late auditions until October 10th and are open to any student of ballet. The audition assesses the dancer’s ability so that he/she may be appropriately cast in a role. A child who wishes to participate is never turned away. Brothers of students may be considered and many times adult performers are needed. Of course, boys enrolled in classes receive priority casting. Participation is voluntary; no PYBC student is required to perform.

How does the casting work?

Last year, over 150 children were cast in the “Nutcracker”. Two casts are used: Cast 1 performs in the evening performances and Cast 2 performs in the matinees. Each child will participate in at least two performances. The numbers and sizes of dancers balance the casts.

How often are rehearsals?

For most roles, rehearsals are held one hour every other week, usually Saturday or Sunday afternoons, starting in October. As the performance date approaches, more rehearsals may be added. A lot of company rehearsals are arranged around class times.

What are the fees involved with the “Nutcracker”?

Because the performance is staged by PYBC, each dancer must pay a rehearsal/performance fee. The rehearsal fee is used to pay the teachers who train the children for their parts and to support the other aspects of production, such as rehearsals, stage rental, costumes, stage contracts, props, lighting, and music. The complete fee for rehearsal/performance/ &costume is about $150.

What about costumes?

PYBC maintains a costume inventory, so the “Nutcracker” costumes are loaned to the dancer free-of-charge in most cases. Many of the costumes cost well over $200 (some as much as $1,200), so maintaining this collection reduces the cost of performing for our dancers. Only the bonbons, the smallest children, may purchase their costumes (usually $30) due in October.

What is the Patron Program?

The Patron Program is an optional ticket program offering priority seating and recognition in the “Nutcracker” and“Spring Programs”. Patron ticket orders are placed in October. Ticket forms will be available at the audition. The ticket orders are numbered as the forms reach the office. Platinum tickets are given first priority followed by Diamond, Gold, and then Silver.

Can families get involved too?

YES! Experienced and highly trained staffs of teachers prepare the children for their roles. However, an all-volunteer staff handles all other aspects of the production. The volunteers making your child’s costume, setting up the stage, working backstage, preparing the program, arranging for advertising, selling tickets, and printing the cast sweatshirts do it all for love. New hands are always welcome and very much needed! Please check the bulletin board for sign-up sheets. We hope to see you soon.