Dance Related Careers Aside from Being ‘Just a Dancer’

Oftentimes when a person claims that they’d like to dance professionally, others are quick to reply that the dance world is very competitive, and only an elite few really “make it”. This statement is only partially true. Yes the dance world can be a competitive one, and in some circumstances it is incredibly difficult to achieve success, but what many don’t realize that there is a multitude of career paths one could take as a professional dancer. When the time comes to make decisions regarding the future, consider these fulfilling dance-related career paths.

Other than being a working dancer who is strictly auditioning for roles, there are countless career opportunities that incorporate dance. Choreographers, rehearsal directors, and artistic directors are just a few of these examples. These professionals work with dancers every day, many of them remaining practicing dancers themselves. People with these careers are able to immerse themselves in the world of dance while contributing their talents from another angle. If you’ve always been interested in the work that is done behind the scenes, consider being a set designer or costume designer. The possibilities are endless when it comes to working dance into your professional choices.

A dance related career path that many dancers do not immediately consider is that of a dance instructor. Dance instructors have the benefits of utilizing artistic freedom and operating classrooms on their own terms. Teaching dance is incredibly rewarding, as it gives you the opportunity to inspire future generations while acting as a mentor and role model. Dance instructors get to watch students improve and carry out their unique, creative vision on a daily basis. Many dance instructors are not limited to teaching only at a studio. In fact, many dance instructors are also choreographers who travel the country and the world, exchanging ideas and creative concepts.

Another career path in the field of dance that is often overlooked is that of a dance therapist. Dance therapists use physical movement and artistry to help people overcome emotional and/or mental obstacles. Anyone who has studied the art of dance can understand that dance is a form of therapy in itself. Physical exercise paired with expressive movement can be incredibly healing to those facing personal difficulty. As a dance therapist, you would use the therapeutic qualities of dance to better the lives of others. What better way to give back to the community than to share the art of dance?

The sky is the limit when it comes to dance related career opportunities. Dance can take you so many places both figuratively and literally. If you are interested in a career that provides countless opportunities for personal growth, travel, and artistic freedom, dance is definitely a viable option for your future. Thinking outside the box will open up many doors if your goal is to incorporate dance into a successful career.