Ballet for Youth snowflake dancers on stage beneath a full moon in the Nutcracker’s snow scene

Ballet For Youth presents

The Nutcracker

November 21–22, 2026

A beloved holiday tradition at the SCC Lair Auditorium in Spokane, bringing the magic of ballet to life for all ages.

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Who we are

Inspiring Spokane youth
through ballet.

Clara holds up her Nutcracker in Ballet for Youth’s Nutcracker

Ballet for Youth is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that gives Spokane-area dance students the chance to perform on a real stage and keep growing as dancers.

  • The fifth annual Nutcracker

    Young dancers share the stage with professional guest artists every holiday season.

  • Financial assistance

    Help with costs so more young dancers can take part.

  • Master Teachers

    Master classes taught by visiting professionals.

Our story
The 2026 season

On stage this season.

Two Ballet for Youth dancers perform the Snow pas de deux in the Nutcracker

The Nutcracker

November 21–22, 2026

A holiday tradition to share with family and loved ones.

  • SCC Lair Auditorium, Spokane
  • Sat 2 & 6 PM · Sun 2 PM
Children from the Nutcracker party scene pose together on the Ballet for Youth stage

Nutcracker auditions

Thank you to every dancer who auditioned for 2026!

  • Get an email when next year’s date is set
  • Ballet Arts Academy, Spokane
  • All ages and skill levels
Get involved

Volunteer for
the Nutcracker.

The show runs on volunteers. Pick a role that fits your time, from costumes and ushering to backstage help with young dancers.

  • Costumes
  • Ushers & Tickets
  • Child Minders
  • Flowers
  • Decorating
  • Merch & Baked Goods
  • Load-In & Load-Out
  • Social Media & Design
  • Sponsorships
Sign Up to Volunteer
Stay connected

News from
Ballet for Youth.

Get emails about Nutcracker performances and ticket sales, upcoming events, and ways to support Spokane’s young dancers.

Looking for audition dates? Sign up for audition updates instead.

Get Ballet for Youth news

Good to know

Frequently
asked questions.

When are Nutcracker auditions held?

Nutcracker auditions are typically held in late August each year. Be sure to join our email list or follow us on social media for audition updates. Dancers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to audition!

Audition details
Where can I buy tickets for the Nutcracker performances?

Tickets go on sale each year, typically on the last Monday in September. See showtimes, location and ticket links on our Nutcracker page. Be sure to check back for updates on ticket availability and performance dates!

Showtimes & tickets
Is this the same as the Spokane Symphony Nutcracker?

No. Ballet for Youth’s Nutcracker is a separate production, performed by Spokane-area youth dancers with professional guest artists at the Spokane Community College Lair Auditorium. Before you buy tickets or register for auditions, check that you’re on balletforyouth.org or our Eventbrite page and that the venue listed is the SCC Lair.

How can I support Ballet for Youth?

You can support Ballet for Youth by donating, volunteering, or becoming a sponsor. Donations help provide financial assistance for young dancers and support our annual Nutcracker production. Volunteers are always needed for events and performances. Businesses and individuals can also sponsor our performances and events.

Be a Patron of
the Arts.

Your support provides performance opportunities, financial assistance, and advanced training for Spokane’s young dancers.

Give a giftEvery donation matters

Help fund performances, financial assistance and master classes.

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Become a sponsorA lasting impact

Put your business in the Nutcracker program and on our website.

Sponsor the Arts