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Connecticut Ballet will hold open auditions for children’s roles in its upcoming production of THE NUTCRACKER on Sunday, September 18th at Connecticut Ballet Center, 20 Acosta Street, Stamford. Rehearsals will commence in mid-October. Public performances are December 17-18 at The Palace, Stamford Center for the Arts. Some cast members will also be invited to perform with the company in Hartford, December 10-11. A longstanding tradition in downtown Stamford, the ballet features guest stars from American Ballet Theatre and New York City Ballet and Connecticut Ballet’s professional corps de ballet. Since 1984, nearly 3000 local children have performed in Connecticut Ballet’s production.

The audition is open to all young dancers from the Fairfield County region. Prior dance experience is helpful, but not necessary for younger children. The following is the breakdown of audition times by age: Children ages 4-5 – 11:00-11:45pm; ages 5.5-6.5 – 12:00-12:45pm; ages 6.5-7.5 – 1:15-2:00pm; ages 8-10 – 2:30-3:45pm; ages 10.5-12 – 4:15-5:30pm; ages 13-16 – 6:00-7:15pm.

Prior registration is required. Visit www.connecticutballet.org to access audition and registration forms. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian and should arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time. Parents will check in their children and then remain outside the building. Hair should be properly fastened and dance attire (including soft ballet slippers) is required. Masks are required inside Connecticut Ballet Center. For further info, email ctballet@ix.netcom.com.