Purpose of the Audition
Our auditions are a fun, educational experience designed to teach students the art of auditioning, a valuable skill that improves with practice. We tailor the process to each age group so every student leaves feeling confident, encouraged, and ready for the stage.
Register to Audition
Complete the registration form and pay the audition fee. Auditions will be held on Saturday, September 6 and Sunday, September 7.
Audition Schedule
ABA Level refers to levels at Alameda Ballet Academy.
| Saturday September 6 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Time | ABA Level | Non-ABA |
| 12:15 - 1:30 PM | Ballet 2A-C | ages 9-11 |
| 1:45 - 3:00 PM | Ballet 4 | ages 14+ |
| 3:15 - 5:15 PM | Ballet 5/6/Pro | ages 16+ |
| Sunday September 7 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Time | ABA Level | Non-ABA |
| 10:00 - 11:00 AM | Ballet 3 | ages 12+ |
| 11:15 - 12:00 PM | Boys | no experience required |
| 12:15 - 1:00 PM | Pre-Ballet | ages 4-5 |
| 1:15 - 2:15 PM | Ballet 1A&B | ages 6-8 |
| 2:30 - 3:30 PM | Beginning/Intermediate Teens | 1+ years of dance experience |
Frequently Asked Questions
Almost everyone who auditions will receive a role in The Nutcracker.
For younger dancers, the focus is on learning:
- Rehearsal behavior
- Backstage etiquette
- Onstage confidence
Their choreography is simple and age-appropriate, with limited stage time to match their readiness — yet they always steal the show with their charm!
Casting is based on ability, not just age or class level. Students grow at different rates, and we aim to showcase each dancer’s strengths. Some roles may include dancers from the same class, while others mix ages and skill levels.
Auditions help us see where each dancer is now so we can place them in the role that fits best. Roles cannot be assigned in advance.
After auditions, we evaluate all participants and build a balanced cast, considering both onstage roles and behind-the-scenes logistics.
Next steps:
- You’ll receive a casting notification.
- If your child is cast, you must:
- Attend the mandatory parent meeting
- Sign the performance contract
- Pay the performance fee
- Or, you may respectfully decline the offer.
Upon arrival, your child will receive a number, be measured by wardrobe, and wait for their group to be called. In the studio, dancers will learn age-appropriate steps so we can see where they shine. They’ll be released to parents at the scheduled time.
Please submit the audition registration form and pay the audition fee.
Yes. If your child cannot attend, email admin@alamedaballet.com after completing the audition form and paying the $15 fee. Priority is given to those who audition in person, but we’ll do our best to cast absentees.
Alameda Ballet Academy at 1402 Park Street, Alameda on the 2nd floor.
$15 per dancer paid during registration.
Regular ballet class attire. Non-ABA students may wear any movable clothing with ballet shoes — or socks if they don’t have ballet shoes.
No. Please leave and return at pickup, as lobby space is limited. If your child is anxious, we’ll help them feel safe and supported. While you wait, you can enjoy the shops and restaurants along beautiful Park Street.
Sorry, no. Auditions are closed to observers.
Casting and the rehearsal schedule will be announced about one week after auditions. For the latest updates, check the Participate or Schedule page.
- Rehearsals are approximately 1 hour per role.
- Saturday evenings, 6–8 PM, or Sundays, 9 AM–6 PM.
- Begin in late September and run every weekend until the performance.
- 9 weekends total, including dress rehearsal.