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.