Do you have what it takes to light up the court with the BlackJacks Dancers?


We’re searching for passionate and talented performers to join our team and take centre stage at every Ottawa BlackJacks home game!


BLACKJACKS DANCERS
OPEN CALL AUDITIONS


Date: Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026


Location: Union Studios, 290 Picton Ave., Unit 102, Ottawa, Ont.


Time: This year, auditions will be offered in two time slots. See time slots offered below. 


Fee: $10.00

DETAILS AND REQUIREMENTS:


  • Must be 18 years of age by May 1, 2026
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Must have dance experience - Multiple styles are recommended
  • Please wear form-fitting two-piece dance attire
  • Non-marking athletic/dance shoes
  • Must come “Game Day” ready

DATE: Sunday, Feb 1


LOCATION:  Union Studios, 290 Picton Ave., Unit 102, Ottawa, Ont.

Audition Fee: $10.00 (no refunds after submitting your application).


TIME A: 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

TIME B: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

This year, auditions will be offered in two time slots. Please indicate your preferred time slot when submitting your application. While we will do our best to accommodate your preference, your requested slot is not guaranteed. Please be prepared for either option. You will be notified by email one week prior to auditions of your confirmed audition time.


Registration begins at 2:30 p.m. for the first time slot and 6:30 p.m. for the second time slot. Auditions will begin promptly.

BE PREPARED TO STAY AS LONG AS NECESSARY.


IN-PERSON AUDITIONS


WHAT TO EXPECT

Dancers will be taught an across-the-floor combo, a basic Jazz/Commercial routine and will be asked to perform a three eight-count of freestyle choreography highlighting strengths and specialties. Music will be provided. All participants will be asked to perform the routine in small groups.  The audition is closed. Spectators will not be permitted.


  • Bring water and snacks as needed. A water station will be available
  • Free & paid parking options available


JUDGING

  • Judges will focus on dance ability, enthusiasm, energy, personality and showmanship.
  • You will be notified by Feb. 4, 2026, if you have been selected to be on the team via email.


COMMITMENT INFORMATION

  • Mandatory team rehearsals – TBD (last season practices took place every Sunday)
  • 12 regular season home games - May through August (or until end of playoffs). Schedule TBD
  • Mandatory team orientation - Feb 21
  • Pre-Season game(s) – TBD
  • Public appearances and events


VIRTUAL AUDITIONS

For participants unable to attend the audition in person, virtual auditions are available. Please fill out the application below.


What to Expect

You will receive a Jazz/Commercial routine to learn independently and submit via video. In addition, please include a three eight-count freestyle that showcases your strengths and specialties. Music for the freestyle portion will be selected and provided. Your audition submission must also include a brief video response addressing the questions sent to you via email.


You will have two hours to submit your completed audition video. Timely submission is required to be considered.

If you plan on attending auditions, please take the time to register by filling out an application below:

BlackJacks Dancers Audition Application Form

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Who are the BlackJacks Dancers?

    The BlackJacks Dancers are professional entertainers who work and perform at every Ottawa BlackJacks home game.

  • What are the requirements for being on the team?

      Must have a dance, cheer and/or gymnastics background.Must be at least 18 years of age by May 1, 2025.Must be a high school graduate or equivlent.Must have reliable means of transportation to games and practices.Must be physically fit.You must be able to attend all Ottawa BlackJacks home games at TD Place, practices, rehearsals and other related activities including but not limited to: mandatory team meeting after auditions on Sunday, March 2,  practices twice per week from March-August, 2025 at Union Studios.
  • What type of time commitment is required if chosen for the team?

      Attend a team meeting on Sunday, March 2Two weekly practices (2-3 hours)Must be able to attend all home games from May - August, 2025Occasional team and  league functionsCommunity and promotional events
  • Is there a virtual audition option?

    Yes, we offer virtual audition options; however, in-person auditions are encouraged.



  • What should I wear to auditions?

      Please wear form fitting two-piece dance attire (crop top and shorts required. No pants). Non-marking athletic/dance shoesMust come hair and make-up “Game Day” ready
  • Are there any age requirements?

    You must be at least 18 years of age by May 1, 2025.

  • How many members will be selected for the team?

    Up to 20 members will be selected to be a part of the 2025 BlackJacksDancers.

  • What are some of the perks of being a BlackJacks Dancer?

    • Take centre stage and perform for thousands of fans during home games.
    • Tickets to BlackJacks games.
    • An opportunity to participate in charitable and corporate events. 
    • Be featured on the official BlackJacks Dancers page at theblackjacks.ca and across our social media platforms.
    • BlackJacks Dancers Media Day
    • Special offers from our partners
    • + More
  • Will there be any form of compensation?

    Yes, members of the BlackJacks Dancers are compensated for home games, however this is not a full-time position.

  • What does it take to become a BlackJacks Dancer?

      Cheer or dance abilityEnthusiasm and passionStrong showmanship and confidenceOutgoing and engaging personalityAvailability to represent the Ottawa BlackJacks at all home games and events
  • When do practices begin?

    Practices will begin after the audition process is complete on Tuesday, March 4.

For additional questions, please email:
Silvia Ferraro, Director and Coach at entertainment@theblackjacks.ca

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