Tens of thousands of children across the United States pursue their passion of dance, some for recreation, while other dancers desire to make a career out of their passion. What types of career opportunities exist for the child that wants to dance professionally?
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? Below you will find answers to some of these questions and other information to help a family if they are considering having a child go down this path.
What types of jobs are available out there for a dancer?
Dance is a wonderful way to make a living, but realize it is a very competitive profession …show more content…
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 Competition team expanding their performance opportunities or with Competition teams, providing them chances to compete at regional or national competitions against dancers from around the country in their attempt to fine-tune their skills. 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 …show more content…
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 making in terms of 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, 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 muchs as $ 1,500 per week. The income for dancers is not always as consistent as jobs in other fields might