How to Join the Youth Dance Theater of Greater Chicago
Video Auditions NOW Open for What the River Remembers
Dancers ages 7 and up are invited to submit a video audition for YDTGC’s original spring production of What the River Remembers.
Three things are required to complete the audition:
1. Complete this audition registration form - it explains the production details, and includes a list of the roles you are wish to audition for.
2. Submit your video audition reel. Video auditions are due by November 30, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. See these instructions for submitting a video audition. Your dancer does not need professional filming or advanced editing. A clear video recorded on a phone is enough—our goal is to see your dancer’s movement, musicality, and personality.
3. Pay the $25 audition fee. Use button below.
No prior YDTGC membership is required. Dancers of all experience levels are welcome, and every dancer who auditions will be accepted into the company and placed in an age- and skill-appropriate role. Not every dancer needs the same role—but every dancer deserves a place in the story.
FAQS
Are there other fees involved besides the audition fee?
Yes, for each show there is a $225 production fee per cast member. This covers all choreography and instructor fees for 80+ hours of rehearsal, venue rental, tech staff, a dancer t-shirt, a professional headshot for the printed program, and access to the show video. Families must pay the fee in full upon acceptance of the casting assignment.
As a nonprofit, YDTGC is committed to making high-quality dance experiences accessible, but we must also remain financially sustainable amid declining arts funding. The production fee helps cover the real costs of producing a professional-level show.
Given the extensive rehearsal and creative work involved, this opportunity offers significant value—often exceeding the equivalent cost of weekly dance classes.
Are there discounts on the production fee?
Yes, when you commit to joining the cast for a full season, there is an annual production fee of $425. The audition fee is waived. By registering for the full season, families save $75 while securing a place in both productions for the entire year.
WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT FOR BEING IN THE CAST?
Rehearsals are held Sundays between 12-5 p.m. Not every dancer will need to be there every Sunday for all five hours. We publish a weekly rolling schedule and dancers will be expected to attend during their scheduled rehearsal time block.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING A CAST MEMBER?
All production fees include:
🎭 Participation in a professionally produced theatrical dance performance
👕 Official YDTGC Cast T-Shirt
📖 Keepsake Printed Program
📸 Cast and Production Photos and video
🎟️ Priority Access to Ticket Sales
🌟 Performance and Rehearsal Opportunities with Guest and Local Choreographers
🤝 Opportunities to build friendships and collaborate with dancers from throughout the Chicagoland area
🎬 Professional theater experience including stage lighting, costumes, technical elements, and production support
🏅 Recognition at cast celebrations and special company events
📚 Access to exclusive cast events, Q&As with VIPs and people you'd want to meet.
✨ The opportunity to create, perform, and grow as part of one of Chicagoland's unique youth dance theater programs!
Donate to Youth Dance Theater of Greater Chicago
The Youth Dance Theater of Greater Chicago, Inc. is 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. As a nonprofit performing arts company, your donation will help us continue our mission to positively impact the lives of young dancers and is tax deductible.