In Part 1 of this two-part series we took a look at what types of career opportunities exist for the child who wants to dance professionally.
In this post, we are going to look at the following two questions:
- What type of training/education is necessary for a dancer to pursue this type of career?
- What type of pay/income can one expect as a professional dancer?
What Type Of Training/Education Is Required To Pursue Dance As A Career?
It is not absolutely necessary to have a formal education in dance. However, studying dance under an experienced dance teacher or at a quality dance school certainly helps.
Most dancers start their dance training at an early age taking a dance class once a week to learn the basics of dance. As they get older and their skills improve, they often move up to more advanced classes, taking several several classes per week.
During the child’s teenage years, those most serious about a career in dance may choose to attend a special performing arts or dance school.
Other teen dancers continue to take classes at a local dance studio and join either a performing company or a competition team. Performing companies allow them to expand their performance opportunities, while competition teams provide them the opportunity to fine-tune their skills by competing at regional or national competitions against dancers from around the country.
Some of these dancers might then focus on auditioning for a spot in a ballet or other dance company or a spot in a dance program at a college somewhere in the country.
Choreographers and dance teachers should always have a solid dance training and background. They should be well rounded in their dance skills and be able to perform many different styles of dance. If they pursue starting their own business, either teaching dance or being a choreographer, they should also take some basic business classes to enable them to successfully run their business.
What Can A Professional Dancer Plan On Earning As Income?
Salaries of those lucky enough to make a career out of dance can often vary dramatically.
The talent and experience of the dancer are often key factors to the amount of money they can make. Dancing in large shows or productions can help a dancer make more money and have a more consistent flow of income. These spots, of course, are the most desired and competitive in the field. There also tends to be more dance jobs available in larger cities in the country, like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
Many dancers are paid by the show or for the week, getting $50-$100 per show, while dancers with contracts might receive as much as $ 1,500 per week. The income for dancers is not always as consistent as jobs in other fields might pay.
Choreographers and teachers usually earn a steadier wage and are usually paid by the hour. A dance teacher can make anywhere from $10-$30 or more depending on their experience, the type of classes being taught, and what part of the country they are teaching in. Choreographers normally make $35 or more per hour, again depending on experience, reputation, and where in the country they are working.
Summary
A career in dance can be an exciting and fun lifestyle, but, like many careers, it has its good and bad points. When considering a possible career in dance, first decide what is important to you in choosing a career, and then examine how a dance career will meet those expectations.
