Young male performers sought for Fritz role in 'The Nutcracker'; Auditions April 7 in Bloomingdale

Chicago Ballet Conservatory is on the hunt for its 2019 Fritz. The acclaimed "Nutcracker" will return to the Hemmens in Elgin this December and is looking for young boys with a strong desire to share the stage with some of the best performing artists from around the world.

Nutcracker director Linda Cunningham is looking for fearless young boys age 7-12 years with strong memorization skills, great facial expressions and that certain "magic". No previous experience is required.

Auditions will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 7 at Mohler Dance Academy/Chicago Ballet Conservatory, 160 S. Bloomingdale Road, Bloomingdale.

A $20 audition fee and photo are required. Candidates must preregister by calling Chicago Ballet Conservatory at (630) 893-1444.

Cunningham said the Fritz role is a great way for young male dancers to get their start in the performing arts.

"I have a young man now in his 20s who is an actor/singer/dancer that started with me as a child and is now a pro in the business," Cunningham said. "He was a Fritz. Male dancers are extremely sought after, when their good they are in high demand. They can make a very good living at their craft."

This year's "Nutcracker" Dec. 6-8 will feature the return of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, led by Stephen Squires, resident conductor.

Promising to be one of the most extravagant and creative suburban reprisals, the performance will feature professionals from around the world including Raoni Xavier (Bolshoi Brazil) and Roger Hendricks Simon, veteran actor/director of stage and screen who will be reprising his role as Drosselmeyer.

For details, visit www.CBCNutcracker.com.