I'm a beginning adult male dancer (26 years old) and am really curious about auditioning for a local production of The Nutcracker next year. I'm working with a studio on an intense training schedule (6 classes a week, 4 are ballet) . . . I'm wondering what teachers look for when casting a production of The Nutcraker . . . combinations? Mastery of specific steps? Any advice is appreciated

I'd say a huge part is your performing ability...as in face and body language while dancing. After all, you are auditioning for a performance.

Absolutely. If you pick up well and have decent technique, but give them the showmanship, that will help a lot. Being a man, you will have a better chance, too.