THE NUTCRACKER 2026
From the Competition Stage to The Nutcracker Stage
Jewels Festival presents The Nutcracker 2026, giving young dancers a unique opportunity to go beyond the competition stage and become part of a full ballet production.
Dancers from different ballet schools and studios are welcome to join our Nutcracker cast through Open Auditions or through special casting opportunities at the 11th Jewels Festival Petite Edition.
SPECIAL CASTING OPPORTUNITIES AT JEWELS FESTIVAL
The 11th Jewels Festival Petite Edition, October 9–11, 2026, will feature special Nutcracker awards and casting opportunities.
Selected dancers will have the opportunity to receive featured and principal roles in The Nutcracker 2026 and perform in our November production.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE JEWELS — PAS DE DEUX
One selected female dancer will receive the opportunity to perform a featured Pas de Deux with a male partner in The Nutcracker.
Participation in the performance is complimentary. The selected dancer is responsible for the cost and number of required private rehearsals with the partner. Attendance at all scheduled group rehearsals is required.
SPECIAL AWARD — ROLE OF MARIE
One selected dancer will receive the opportunity to perform the role of Marie in Act I of The Nutcracker.
The role will be awarded based on technique, artistry, musicality, stage presence, and suitability for the production.
THE NUTCRACKER AWARD
1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Nutcracker Awards may be presented for outstanding performances of any dance from The Nutcracker, including solos and ensembles.
A selected winning dance may also be invited to become part of The Nutcracker 2026 production.
SPECIAL NUTCRACKER AUDITION AT JEWELS FESTIVAL
Jewels Festival participants have another opportunity to be considered for our Nutcracker cast.
Friday, October 9, 2026
Following the Master Class
Neumann University, Aston, PA
The Nutcracker audition is FREE for all registered participants of the 11th Jewels Festival Ballet Competition.
This gives dancers the opportunity to come to Jewels not only to compete, but also to be considered for a role in The Nutcracker 2026.
OPEN AUDITIONS
Dancers do not have to participate in Jewels Festival to audition for The Nutcracker. Open auditions are available to dancers from all ballet schools and studios.
Audition Dates:
September 12, 19, 26 & October 3, 2026
BROOKLYN, NY
Duet – School of Ballet
2102 Avenue Z, Brooklyn, NY 11235
11:00 AM–12:00 PM
SALISBURY MILLS, NY
American Youth Ballet
2130 NY-94 #11, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577
5:00–6:00 PM
Audition Fee: $30
ROLES AVAILABLE
We are currently auditioning for:
Mice • Soldiers • Kids Dance • Clowns • Snowflakes • Waltz of the Flowers • Spanish Dance • Arabian Dance • Chinese Dance • Trepak • Marzipan
Additional featured and ensemble roles may be offered based on casting needs.
REHEARSALS
Rehearsals will be held at both:
Duet – School of Ballet — Brooklyn, NY
American Youth Ballet — Salisbury Mills, NY
Rehearsals may be scheduled on Saturdays, Sundays, and selected weekdays depending on the dancer’s role, production schedule, and availability.
Dancers selected for featured roles or Pas de Deux may require additional individual or private rehearsals.
THE PERFORMANCE
THE NUTCRACKER 2026
November 29, 2026
The Nutcracker offers young dancers the opportunity to experience ballet beyond classes and competitions — to rehearse as part of a production, work with professional teachers and coaches, perform on stage, and share the magic of a holiday tradition with an audience.
Compete. Be noticed. Get cast. Take the stage.
From the Competition Stage to The Nutcracker Stage.