Les Grands Ballets, in partnership with the École supérieure de ballet du Québec (ESBQ), are delighted to announce the audition dates for children's roles in the famous ballet The Nutcracker. Children and teenagers selected for various roles will participate in the show, which will be presented from December 5 to 30, 2026, at Place des Arts in Montreal. Additionally, some roles will also participate in the performances scheduled from November 26 to 29, 2026 at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.
Save the dates
September 11 and 19, 2026
École supérieure de ballet du Québec
4816 Rue Rivard, Montréal
Friday, September 11
1:00–2:45 p.m.: Corps de ballet
3:00–4:30 p.m.: Matryoshkas and Coffee
5:00–5:30 p.m.: Celebration Boys and Fritz
5:30–7:30 p.m.: Celebration Girls, Clara, and White Sheep
Saturday, September 19
11:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m.: Mice
12:15–1:15 p.m.: Black Sheep
1:15–2:45 p.m.: Angels and Reindeer
2:45–3:15 p.m.: Rats
Who can audition?
Participating in The Nutcracker is an exceptional opportunity to gain enriching and formative experience in a professional environment. Only students of the École supérieure de ballet du Québec can audition for this iconic show. The auditions will be open to students from the professional program and the recreational program. Some roles are reserved for the professional program.
In order to be able to audition for certain roles (Children Of The Party, Mice, Rats, Angels and Reindeers), it is possible to join the ESBQ’s recreative program. For questions about the Recreative program, write to recreatif@esbq.ca.
Audition process
By applying, candidates agree to play the role assigned to them, regardless of their initial preference.
Final decision: The roles will be assigned by Les Grands Ballets' team, who will then communicate the results directly to the selected candidates. Applicants who are not selected will also be informed.
What will be the rehearsal schedule and where will it take place?
Anyone selected to audition will be expected to attend rehearsals at th Wilder Building (1435, rue De Bleury, Montreal). A detailed schedule of rehearsals planned from September to December will be posted online shortly.
How to register for the auditions?
To participate, complete the registration form (click on the button below) before September 7.
