Attendance: We consider each member of our cast to be a vital and important part of The Nutcracker. Because we take roles very seriously, we ask that you and your child take your potential participation just as seriously. All cast members are expected to commit to attending all scheduled rehearsals and performances. Two (2) excused absences from rehearsals (not including tech week) are permitted, but must be previously communicated to Miss Emily. Any prolonged or uncommunicated absences will result in forfeiture of a student’s role.
Illness: TCB’s existing illness policy (found online or in the student handbook) applies also to rehearsals and performances of The Nutcracker. Absences due to illness are not counted towards a student’s excused absences, but the student is expected to communicate all absences to Miss Emily and review choreography on his/her own (see preparedness clause below).
Attitude: We expect each and every cast member to fully commit to giving their best effort when they share studio and stage. This commitment includes being kind and respectful to all teachers, directors, and fellow cast mates. Any violation of these standards, or the best effort commitment, will result in forfeiture of a student’s role.
Preparedness: Each student is expected to come to rehearsal with knowledge (or specific questions) of choreography that has been taught (particularly at intermediate and advanced levels). Videos are provided here for review outside of rehearsal. Limited rehearsal time means it is important to review and know choreography, so rehearsal can be used for cleaning choreography and creating performance/character details. Any exceeding violation of this expectation may result in forfeiture of a student’s role.
Volunteering: One member per family of participant is expected to volunteer for at least one position (one shift only) during tech week and performances. Positions include backstage help, ushers, ticket table, security, check in, etc. Many hands enable us to keep everyone safe, the performance running smoothly, and participation free for all.
Investment: We do not charge a performance fee to participate in The Nutcracker. However, there is a $35 rental fee per costume (for cleaning) that will be added to your account and is due by September 16.
Costume: All Nutcracker costumes are property of The Children’s Ballet. There is no eating or drinking (except water) in costumes. All costumes and headpieces are to be cared for, hung up properly when not in use, and all costumes and parts returned after each rehearsal and performance. Any violation of this agreement or mis-care of costumes will result in a $15 cleaning fee per costume to the student.
Tights: clean, pink, footed (or convertible) tights; no rips, runs, holes
Shoes: pink ballet shoes (remove ribbons and diamonds); pointe shoes if applicable
Hair: neat, tidy, high bun. Please secure with a hairnet and bobby pins and secure flyaways with hairspray. Headpieces are provided with your costume. Party Scene Dancers: half up, half down with white bow (provided) pinned on top of ½ ponytail.
Makeup: Check out makeup tutorials for younger dancers, intermediate dancers, and advanced dancers. Thank you to Radiant Skin for help with these tutorials!
