What are the responsibilities and job description for the Drosselmeyer / Nutcracker Prince position at NYC Children's Theater?
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION:
Step into a world of wonder, music, and imagination with MY FIRST NUTCRACKER, NYCCT’s joyful introduction to the beloved holiday classic. Created especially for young children and their families, this 60?minute adaptation invites audiences to follow Clara Marie on a magical journey into the Land of the Sweets, where curiosity leads to courage and imagination opens every door.
Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, vibrant storytelling, and ballet-based expressive movement, MY FIRST NUTCRACKER offers a warm, accessible, and inclusive holiday experience. Children are welcomed into the story through imaginative interactivity and clear, engaging narration—making this the perfect first theater or dance experience for ages 3–8.
This production reflects NYCCT’s mission to inspire young people’s imaginations and support social?emotional growth through original theatrical experiences. By centering themes of curiosity, family, holiday tradition, and female empowerment, MY FIRST NUTCRACKER connects timeless storytelling with the developmental needs of today’s children. It also continues NYCCT’s long?standing commitment to creating high quality, artistically dynamic productions.
Produced in December 2026, MY FIRST NUTCRACKER brings together the creative vision of playwright Barbara Zinn Krieger and director/choreographer Kristen Brooks Sandler to reimagine a classic tale for New York City’s youngest generation of curious children.
SEEKING:
Seeking non-union Dancer/Actor for My First Nutcracker - Immediate Casting for Current Production
Seeking highly skilled dancers with strong backgrounds in ballet and contemporary, who are also confident, expressive actors. The production includes spoken text, so comfort with dialogue and storytelling is essential.
This is an interactive, immersive children’s theater experience, and we are especially looking for performers who genuinely enjoy engaging with young audiences. A playful spirit, adaptability, and a strong sense of ensemble are key.
Role Needed:
This is a gender expansive production. The gender of the roles as presented in the source material do not denote the gender of the cast individual. All ethnicities, gender expressions, and body types are encouraged to submit.
DROSSELMEYER / NUTCRACKER PRINCE
The mysterious toymaker with a twinkle in their eye, Drosselmeyer is part magician, part storyteller—they set Clara’s journey into motion. As the Nutcracker, they lead Clara through the Land of Sweets, embodying both wisdom and the gallant charm of a fairytale hero.
Partnering needed. Tumbling a plus.
DURATION:
Production Rehearsals: November 13th - November 29th
Designer Run: TBD, Sunday, November 29th
Production Location: Theatre Row, Theatre 3
Tech: December 1st - 4th
Previews: Saturday, December 5th @ 11AM
Opening: Saturday, December 5th @ 2:30PM
Closing/Strike: December 22nd
Performance Schedule:
Saturday, December 5th, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
Sunday, December 6th, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
Monday, December 7th, OFF
Tuesday, December 8th, OFF
Wednesday, December 9th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Thursday, December 10th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Friday, December 11th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Saturday, December 12th, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
Sunday, December 13th, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
Monday, December 14th, OFF
Tuesday, December 15th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Wednesday, December 16th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Thursday, December 17th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Friday, December 18th, 11 AM & 5:30 PM
Saturday, December 19th, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
Sunday, December 20th, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
Monday, December 21st, OFF
Tuesday, December 22nd, 11 AM & 2:30 PM
PERSONNEL:
Adapted for young audiences by Barbara Zinn Krieger
Producer: New York City Children’s Theater & Sammy Lopez
Artistic Director: Barbara Zinn Krieger
Director & Choreographer: Kristen Brooks Sandler
Featuring the Music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Created in Collaboration with Thistle Dance
DURATION
Nov 13 - Dec 22
SALARY
$950/wk x 5 weeks ($4,750 total)
AUDITION INFORMATION
WHERE
Online Submissions
WHEN
Accepting submissions now
WHAT TO PREPARE
Please fill out the google form, found here:
https://forms.gle/S1b6pUkxahZ5nTYC9
We will review all submissions received. Those who are called back will receive communication for a zoom interview, and then an in person audition / work session.
Send any questions to [email protected]
DURATION
Nov 13, 2026 - Dec 22, 2026
SALARY
$950.00 – $950.00 per week
- NON-UNION