Auditions Open: The Children’s Nutcracker 2026

The Children's Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is officially hosting auditions for our annual holiday tradition, The Children’s Nutcracker 2026!

We invite dancers, gymnasts, actors, and performing artists ages 3 to 19 to join our production. CBSA auditions are free and open to young artists from all over San Antonio and more than 30 surrounding Texas areas. Artists of all experience levels are highly encouraged to audition.

🗓️ Important Production Dates

  • Audition Date: August 29, 2026; 12pm-5:30pm

  • Rehearsals Start: September 2026 (Saturday afternoons)

  • Tentative Tech Week: December 14–17, 2026

  • Performance Dates: December 18–22, 2026

Register for your free audition

Why Join the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio?

Unlike traditional productions, CBSA features a cast made entirely of children and teens (ages 3–19). This gives our performers unparalleled opportunities to shine. By joining the cast, your child will:

  • Train directly with Master Ballet Teachers and top local choreographers.

  • Receive individual attention from experienced rehearsal directors.

  • Have the opportunity to be cast in highlighted, solo, and lead roles tailored to their specific strengths.

Audition Requirements & Schedule

📍 In-Person Auditions: Saturday, August 29, 2026

Please log into or create your account in our Parent Portal, navigate to the Nutcracker Audition 2026 tab, and register for the specific time slot that corresponds to your child's age.

💡 Pro-Tip: Intermediate and advanced dancers and gymnasts are highly recommended to arrive early and warm up prior to their scheduled audition time.

📹 Can't Make It? Submit a Video Audition

If you cannot attend the in-person auditions on August 29, you can submit a video audition!

Audition dress code is as follows: 

Dancers - Girls: black leotard, tights, and ballet shoes; Boys: white shirt and black tights/leggings

Gymnasts - Girls: leotard; Boys: shorts and t-shirt (no baggy shorts)

Rehearsal Commitment & Expectations

  • Schedule: Rehearsals take place every Saturday afternoon starting in September.

  • Frequency: Not every performer is called every week. Schedules are released on the Monday prior to rehearsal. As a general rule, plan for 6 Saturdays of rehearsal for every 1 role offered.

How to Register (Step-by-Step)

To secure your child's free audition spot, you must complete the online application before arriving.

  1. Click Here

  2. Select Classes: Choose "Register for Classes" from the main menu.

  3. Choose Tab: Click on the Nutcracker Audition 2026 tab.

  4. Select Age Group: Register for the time slot that matches your dancer's age.

  5. Submit Waivers: Complete the Online Audition Application Form and sign the required liability waivers.