Please Note: Dancers must be the correct age for their audition group by August 15, 2026
Saturday, August 15, 2026
1:00 - 1:45 PM ages 5 & 6
2:00 - 2:45 PM ages 7 & 8
2:45 - 3:15 PM Acro Only ages 7-10
(see requirements)
3:15 - 4:00 PM ages 9 & 10
Sunday, August 16, 2026
11:00 - 12:00 ages 11-12
12:00 - 1:00 ages 13-14
1:00 - 2:30 ages 14+
Dancers currently training en pointe must bring their pointe shoes to the audition.
Acro Audition Requirements:
Dancers interested in acrobatic roles should attend the Acro audition.
Participants must be able to perform:
• Cartwheel
• Back walkover
• Stand up from a bridge
All dancers must complete Media Release, Audition Registration, and Headshot Upload.
What to Wear
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Dance attire, preferably a leotard and tights, with ballet slippers
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Hair neatly secured in a bun
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For acro auditions, convertible tights or bare feet are required for safety
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Parent Information
Parents are welcome to remain in the lobby during auditions, where auditions will be streamed live on the television. Additional seating will also be available in Studio 1.
To help dancers remain focused, we respectfully ask that parents do not gather outside Studio 3 or enter Studio 3 during auditions.
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your audition time.
For questions, please call
716-688-4774
or e-mail dance@aab-buffalo.com
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Experience the Magic of The Nutcracker
Saturday, December 5, 2026
​Join Buffalo and Western New York’s Longest-Running Nutcracker
The American Academy of Ballet proudly presents the region’s longest-running Nutcracker, a holiday tradition where dancers of all ages bring Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece to life. Each year, our stage fills with snowflakes, toy soldiers, waltzing flowers, and the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy. Families from Buffalo and across WNY return year after year, making our Nutcracker one of the region’s most beloved holiday ballet traditions.
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Nutcracker Auditions
We invite young dancers of all levels to audition for this year’s Nutcracker performances. Auditions are open to ages 5 and up, with roles that include everything from party children and mice to angels, candy canes, and more. Dancers from across Buffalo and the greater WNY region are encouraged to audition. Our Nutcracker is known for its professional staging, joyful atmosphere, and the chance for students to shine alongside seasoned performers.​
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Why Join Our Nutcracker?
• Be part of WNY’s beloved holiday ballet tradition.
• Gain stage experience in a full-length professional production.
• Learn from expert ballet and dance instructors.
• Build friendships and lasting memories in a supportive community.
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Performance and Opening Night
Opening night of our Nutcracker is one of the highlights of Buffalo’s holiday season. Families return year after year to experience the timeless music of Tchaikovsky, dazzling costumes, and heartfelt performances by our talented dancers. Whether you are a first-time participant or a returning cast member, joining the Nutcracker is an unforgettable way to celebrate the spirit of dance in Western New York.