What are the career options in dance?

The field of dance offers a wide range of career options for individuals passionate about the art form. Here are some of the main career paths in dance:

1. Professional Performer: Professional dancers perform in various settings, including dance companies, theaters, television, film, music videos, commercials, and live events. They may specialize in specific dance styles such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, or cultural dance forms.

2. Choreographer: Choreographers create and design dance sequences, routines, and performances for stage productions, films, television shows, music videos, commercials, and live events. They collaborate with directors, producers, and performers to conceptualize and choreograph movement that enhances storytelling and artistic expression.

3. Dance Teacher/Instructor: Dance teachers and instructors educate students of all ages and skill levels in various dance styles, techniques, and disciplines. They may work at dance studios, schools, community centers, fitness facilities, or offer private lessons. Dance educators may specialize in teaching children, teens, adults, or specific populations such as seniors or individuals with disabilities.

4. Arts Administrator: Arts administrators work behind the scenes to manage dance companies, theaters, dance studios, festivals, and other arts organizations. They oversee operations, marketing, fundraising, programming, finances, and other administrative functions to support the artistic mission and sustainability of the organization.

5. Dance Therapist: Dance therapists use movement and dance to support the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of individuals with various needs, including those with disabilities, mental health conditions, developmental disorders, or trauma. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, community organizations, or private practice settings.

6. Freelance Artist: Freelance dancers and choreographers work independently on a project basis, collaborating with various clients, productions, and events. They may work on commissioned choreography, freelance performances, workshops, or other creative projects, offering their skills and expertise to multiple clients and projects.

7. Commercial Dancer: Commercial dancers work in the entertainment industry, appearing in music videos, commercials, television shows, concerts, tours, and live events. They may work as backup dancers, featured performers, dance ensemble members, or specialty dancers, showcasing their talent and versatility in diverse settings and genres.

8. Dance Researcher/Scholar: Dance researchers and scholars conduct academic research, analysis, and writing on various aspects of dance, including history, culture, theory, aesthetics, and performance studies. They may work in universities, research institutions, museums, or cultural organizations, contributing to the scholarly understanding and documentation of dance as an art form and cultural practice.

9. Dance Critic/Reviewer: Dance critics and reviewers evaluate and critique dance performances, productions, and events, providing commentary, analysis, and feedback to audiences, artists, and stakeholders. They may write reviews for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other media outlets, shaping public discourse and appreciation of dance as an art form.

10. Dance Entrepreneur: Dance entrepreneurs create and manage their own dance-related businesses, projects, or initiatives, such as dance studios, dance companies, production companies, performance venues, festivals, events, or online platforms. They combine artistic vision with business acumen to innovate, create opportunities, and contribute to the dance community and industry.

These are just a few of the many career options available in the field of dance. Whether you're interested in performing, choreography, teaching, administration, therapy, research, criticism, entrepreneurship, or another aspect of dance, there are diverse opportunities to pursue your passion and make a meaningful contribution to the world of dance.