The Nutcracker is presented by Kidz Danz Kompany (KDK) and is open to dancers ages 4 through adult of all experience levels. Studio enrollment is not required, and dancers do not need to be members of KDK to participate. All rehearsals and performances will be held at MP Dance in La Mesa (8674 La Mesa Blvd. La Mesa, CA 91942).
Each year, KDK presents a unique interpretation of The Nutcracker, bringing fresh storytelling, creative choreography, and exciting new elements to this beloved holiday classic. Our production features a variety of dance styles, giving dancers the opportunity to perform in genres that showcase their individual talents while creating a dynamic and entertaining experience for audiences.
We welcome everyone - from aspiring dancers and experienced performers to parents, friends, and members of the community who want to be part of this special holiday tradition. There is a role for everyone who auditions, so come experience the magic of The Nutcracker!
Please note: Participation in this performance is mandatory for all KDK dancers.
To be cast in The Nutcracker, all participants must complete this registration form. Auditions are held for casting and placement purposes only. Every dancer who registers and auditions will receive a role in the production.
IMPORTANT DATES
General Rehearsal Schedule
Mondays: 6-8pm
Wednesdays: 6-8pm
Saturdays: 11:30-4pm
*not all dancers will be called to all rehearsals or hours, a rehearsal schedule will be provided after casting
Important Rehearsals
Saturday, December 5th | Final Full Cast Rehearsal 11:30-2pm
Monday, December 7th | Tech Rehearsal 4:30-7pm
Wednesday, December 9th | Tech/Dress Rehearsal 4:30-8pm
Thursday, December 10th| Final Dress Rehearsal 4:30-7:30pm
Performances
Friday, December 11th Call @5:30pm | Show @ 7:00pm
Saturday, December 12th Call @12:30pm | Show @ 2:00pm
Saturday, December 12th | Call @6:00pm | Show @ 7:00pm
Friday, December 18th Call @5:30pm | Show @ 7:00pm
Saturday, December 19th Call @12:30pm | Show @ 2:00pm
Saturday, December 19th | Call @6:00pm | Show @ 7:00pm
Auditions
Auditions will be held on Saturday, September 5th.
Clara Auditions (Ages 9–18): 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Ensemble & Featured Roles (all other roles): 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
The role of Clara is open to dancers ages 9–18. Dancers auditioning for Clara are also expected to participate in the general audition for all Ensemble & Featured Roles.
Please arrive 15–20 minutes early to check in and warm up. Dancers should plan to remain for the entire audition unless otherwise instructed.
Wear form-fitting dance attire with hair neatly secured away from the face. Please bring your dance shoes (ballet, jazz, pointe, etc. if you have them). No preparation is necessary—there is no need to learn choreography or prepare any material in advance.
Auditions are designed to be a fun, positive experience while helping our artistic staff determine casting and role placement. They are an opportunity for dancers to learn, grow, and enjoy the audition process in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Please note that auditions are closed. For the comfort and focus of the dancers, parents are kindly asked to remain outside the studio unless they are also participating in auditions.
Please remember that every dancer who completes registration and auditions will be cast in the production. Auditions are held for experience, casting, and placement purposes only.
Casting will be announced following auditions, and a rehearsal schedule will be distributed once roles have been assigned.
CONFLICTS
It is very important that you list ALL conflicts on the audition form. This includes sports, appointments, vacations, etc. Any conflicts that arise that were not listed prior to casting may not be approved or may result in student being dismissed from the production. Students should not have any conflicts during Tech or Dress Rehearsals, or for any performance dates.
PRODUCTION FEES
Auditionees must submit a $40 commitment fee by audition day (September 5th, 2026) to confirm placement in The Nutcracker. This fee is required in order to hold your dancer’s role in the production.
The remaining $67 balance is due by October 11th, 2026.
Production fees support the many costs associated with bringing a production to life. These include costuming, rehearsal space, staff and choreographer time, production materials, and administrative costs involved in organizing and running the show. All payments must be made through our parent portal, Jackrabbit. Please contact the studio with any questions.
Production Commitment Fee Options
Standard Production Fee: $107 total
$40 due by 9/5/26
$67 due by 10/11/26
Early Bird Discount (New Students Only): $87 total
Must be paid in full by 8/9/26
KDK Member Rate: $97 total
Must be paid in full by 10/11/26
Discounts cannot be combined.
Do you qualify for a discount but would like to support the arts?
You are welcome to select the full $107 option.
**Payment plans and financial assistance may be available. Please contact the office for more information.
Additional Fees
- Garment bag/Storage bin - $30 fee (only for performers new to the studio including adults)
- Other items that performers may need such as; tights, shoes, leotards, etc. will be shared at a later date if they need to be purchased.
All Payments/Fees are non-refundable and subject to additional late fees if payments are not made by their due date.
SPECIAL DEALS
All Nutcracker cast members are offered the following discounts on MPD Merch! Please enter the item/quanty in the comment section of this form.
- MPD Water bottle w/ name = $15
- MPD duffle bag = $25
- MPD t-shirt (black with white logo) = $20