Auditions
Free parking is available in Lots A3, B1, B2 (south, north and east of Stephens Auditorium and Center Drive). Please enter Stephens Auditorium through the Southeast Corner – Stage Door. Do not drop off or park in the loading dock area.
All dancers must complete the information below before arriving at Stephens Auditorium: 1) Complete online audition card and 2) Print off audition card and bring to registration. If you forget your audition card, we will have an area set up with a laptop/ipad and printer so you can fill out the information online and print it for a $5 fee. There will be no blank audition cards at registration.
Dancers need to be dressed, warmed-up and ready to audition at the times listed on the order form for the part(s) you’re auditioning for. All dancers should wear leotards, tights, and ballet or pointe shoes.
Dancers MUST be enrolled in a dance studio and pointe dancers MUST be studying pointe to perform. Children must be 6 years of age or older (by the date of the performance) to perform. You may be cast in a part for which you did not audition. We reserve the right to cast you in ANY part. Dancers are encouraged to audition for every role they are capable of performing.
Your Help is Needed!
Volunteer Coordinator will contact all participating families for backstage help at rehearsals and performances. This helps keep costs down & keeps our performances running smoothly & safely.
Important Information for 2025
You MUST attend the first rehearsal for your role. If you miss more the first rehearsal, or miss more than two rehearsals for a role, we reserve the right to replace you. First rehearsal will be at the Ames Dancenter South at 319 South 17th Street, Ames, IA 50010.
The Nutcracker Fitting Schedule will be available at Auditions and then posted on this page after auditions.
Participation Fees: $75 per performer (includes one costume fee) plus $60 for each additional performer in the same household (includes one costume fee)
Costume Fees: $25 each for each additional part
Call the Dancenter, home of the Iowa Youth Ballet, at (515) 233-0826 with any questions.
