How to become a commercial dancer

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As a young and fully committed aspiring professional dancer, I thrived on hard work, taking initiative, and being fully dedicated to my art. I put in extra hours outside of class at the gym and stretched nightly. 

I learned as much as I could about conditioning and nutrition, in spite of my Upstate New York meat and potato with extra butter upbringing. I knew I always wanted to teach and stayed in an array of classes for years and years beyond my university dance training.

I had, and still have “Dance Values.” I valued hard work and discipline. I valued working one’s way up in class and companies. I valued the dancers around me. I valued the process of learning and growing as a dancer and an artist. I always knew the love I had in my heart for my art form would trump all. This love of dance is what would get me through audition rejections, bad days, and even other personal life setbacks.

What I didn’t know was that hardly any of these values and attributes prepared me for the business side of the professional dance world.

The professional world. Not just the dance world. Not the kind of world where people call themselves “dancers” because they take a class every day. (They are, of course, dancers, but they are not making a living as a dancer). I knew I wanted to make a living solely as a dancer and thought I was fully equipped with my iron will, drive and dedication.

There were quite a few things no one ever told me. Well, if/when they did, I didn’t listen very well, because my experience would have been different with my values and discipline and love of my art, right? Umm… WRONG! Save yourself hours of grief-stricken phone calls with your Mom and thousands of dollars of therapy, and listen up.

1. Know Your “Type”

Your “type” refers to your natural looks and gifts. Your “type” is dictated by how others see you. Your “type” is not about how you could possibly see yourself in a couple years after a few more classes and your 7-day juice cleanse. You are who you are. I had no idea how others saw me as a young dancer. I knew I loved companies like Alvin Ailey and Bill T. Jones. I followed them and others, but never really gained any ground in auditions. I wanted to be androgynous, exotic, and an athletic artist. Did I mention that I am 5’9”, blonde and busty? I ended up having much better success in the commercial dance realm. I knew what I loved, but not who I was, and how others saw me.

Know where you fit in. We have the ability to change much of our appearance, and that can be fun experimenting with things like hair cuts and colors! Accept your God-given gifts, and work with them accordingly.

Get crystal clear about income, and if you will be able to earn a living while working specific jobs as a dancer. There are resources available like danceusa.org for dance companies, and my books that reference potential job listings and earnings. If you can not earn a living dancing in that venue, understand and accept that you must supplement your income, and get creative in ways to do that, without being miserable. It can be done.

I was performing concert dance I loved in NYC, for a small audience of people who mostly knew people in the show. It was closest to my heart, but I could not make a living. Back to the Musical Theater I went.

We all have choreographers and teachers who have touched our lives. We wish we could dance with them forever. In some cases, we can, but if we cannot make a living doing so, it’s important to cherish the moments when we get with them. Understand the difference between dance you love and the dance that can potentially earn you money. No dollar sign will ever be able to measure the value of dance, and what it means to us. Dance is sacred. Accept that it may or may not earn you a living. If it can in the future, as if you are an apprentice in a company, understand the process and time frame it may take to get there. Sometimes, when we are fortunate, the two can merge. We can earn good money for doing exactly what we truly love. However, some people feel they do not want to sacrifice their art for the dance in the entertainment world.

Understand that some jobs like Broadway, television, and film, are union jobs. Some larger dance companies are union dance companies. Usually, to be eligible to even audition for a union job, a dancer needs a union card. Some examples would include Actor’s Equity Association (AEA) covering Broadway shows, American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) covering NYC Ballet, American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA) covering Rockettes, and Screen Actor’s Guild/ American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG/AFTRA) covering dancers appearing on the silver screen. Dancers in music videos are working to turn their Dancers’ Alliance into a union. Some dancers prefer to stay non-union, as they can find more available jobs. Some dancers demand union jobs to have health benefits and pension plans.

It is not always about talent. There will be numerous auditions when you will be more talented than the person booking the gig. Many other factors influence casting. Casting directors may be looking for a specific type not indicated in the audition listing. There may be a specific costume size that needs to be cast. Sometimes a person auditioning may just remind directors of someone they do not like. It’s that simple! In a case like that, it has absolutely nothing to do with the person auditioning! It happens!

Don’t bother comparing yourself to others. It is a waste. Aim for a personal best with each audition, and remind yourself of what you do and do not have control over.

6.  Be Prepared & Don’t Waste Time

Know exactly what you are auditioning for and be prepared. Research the job description, and know what will be expected of you. If an audition notice says bring knee pads for floor work, and you are recovering from knee surgery, this may not be a gig for you right now.

Wear the same thing, or at least the same color, to call backs. Look the same as you did in your original audition.

Present the exact package you believe they are looking for. If you must sing, bring the appropriate sheet music in the correct key. Casting directors are not paid to use their imagination. They need to cast exactly who can do the job that day. Don’t make them imagine what you look like when you dance in heels or when you finally get your left split.

Working with others is just as much part of being a professional dancer as the dance itself.

There will inevitably be people you work with that may not be your favorite. Being professional means conducting yourself in a respectful manner, regardless of how others act. Also, don’t get sucked into any vortex of negativity. Remember your dance captain and rehearsal directors are considered “superior.” Do not give them any reason to report you. Finally, do not assume that just because a person is in a position of power means they are a smarter, kinder, and a more evolved person than you. They are all people just like you. Sometimes choreographers are insecure and nervous, as it may be their first job of its kind as well!

Everyone has to start somewhere, although there are a few that make it big with the first audition, the other 99% of us have to work our way up. Sometimes we can be an apprentice and have a specific path. If you don’t, be open minded about professional jobs like cruise ships and theme parks. They are an excellent way to see the world, stay in great dance shape, and meet people while getting paid. That paycheck can afford you to live in a major city and audition again, or even pay student loans. I received my first union card (AEA) at a Disney theme park. A 6 or 9-month contract seems so long while you are a young dancer, but it goes by quickly, probably because they are fun gigs.

Commit to the life of a dancer. What does that mean? Stay on top of auditions and actually go. If taking a daily class is too expensive, get yourself a great workout regimen and hit that mat in your apartment. Treat your body like you are an Olympic athlete, and don’t derail or lose sight of your goals. Make a vision board, know exactly what you want, and do whatever it takes. Most people do not understand the life of a professional dancer, and how it is a full-time job keeping yourself ready for any potential job. Don’t look back and say you wish you just would have done more to be successful.

No really, I am serious. Not being corny. Especially when you find your good friends, these will be amongst the best years of your life. Auditioning may be stressful at times, but being young, chasing dreams, and dancing for one’s life is the best. You have worked most of your life for this, right? If you don’t truly love dance, and the process it takes to be a professional, make a change. If you do not handle rejection well, this world is not for you. You will hear “No” often. That’s show biz, kid! Just a friendly reminder that the right path is not always necessarily the professional route. One can touch many lives as a teacher and choreographer. We all have those people who have influenced our lives. But if professional dance is your goal, fully commit to making it happen. You won’t regret it. I promise.

Also by Jill Wolins:

Learning From Shameless Opportunists: 7 Ways To Ensure Success

Freelance Artist Gig Life: Do Something

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How to Become a Professional Dancer (Step by Step) • BUOM

By Indeed Editorial Team

May 13, 2021

Becoming a professional dancer takes passion, determination and dedication. You must invest time in building your craft in order to have a successful career. Hard work is an important quality that a professional dancer possesses. In this article, we will explain what a professional dancer is, what a professional dancer does, how to become one, skills, salary and job prospects. nine0003

What is a professional dancer?

A professional dancer is a person who has the qualifications, skills and training in a particular form of dance. Professional dancers perform a choreographed dance in front of an audience and use their bodies to convey the emotions that tell the story. They specialize in various dance styles such as modern dance, modern dance, street dance, ballet and hip hop and appear in theater productions, films, music videos and Broadway shows. nine0003

What does a professional dancer do?

A professional dancer works with directors, choreographers and other dancers to develop dance sequences for performances. Professional dancers work in a professional environment and work in large dance groups. They spend time studying difficult numbers and interpreting the work of the choreographer. Other duties of professional dancers:

• Spending time rehearsing performances

• Attendance and preparation for auditions

• Learning different types of dance.

• Compliance with safety precautions

• Training how to use other skills, such as acting or singing

• Timely appearance at rehearsals, advertising measures and auditions

• Maintaining good relations with other dancers, instructors and senior staff

Professional dancers work in a wide variety of industries, but generally fall into these three categories. These are:

• Company dancers: Company dancers are usually hired by one company with which they perform regularly for a long time.

• Commercial dancers: Commercial dancers are usually freelancers who work on commercial projects including films, music, cruise ships, musicals, and commercials. nine0003

• Dance teachers: Dance teachers often become teachers when they can no longer dance or discover that teaching is their passion.

How to Become a Professional Dancer

Professional dancers are passionate, determined and persistent in achieving their goals. Here are a few steps to help you transition to professional dance:

1. Complete extensive training

No qualification or degree is required to become a professional dancer, but training is an important factor. Professional dancers begin their training at age five and begin auditioning for full-time jobs at age 18. Training helps develop the muscle strength and techniques necessary to turn a talent into a profession. Dance groups and performing arts schools offer students the experience they need to enter professional dance groups. People who are just starting out in dance should start with ballet because it offers an excellent foundation for developing strength, muscle memory and flexibility that will help them in any dance style. nine0003

2. Consider getting a bachelor's degree

You don't need a university degree to become a professional dancer, but specializing in dance can give you exposure to a variety of dance genres. You also have the option to focus on a particular dance. A variety of universities and colleges offer majors in dance through visual arts or theater departments. On the dance direction you will learn:

• Choreography: You learn performance skills through various dance techniques and ways of expressing yourself through choreography.

• Production: As a student, you will learn about behind-the-scenes production processes. This may include sound work, lightbar control, costumes, lighting design, and stage management.

• The history of dance: you will learn about the origins of dance and how people from different continents view dance from a social, ceremonial and cultural point of view. nine0003

• Teaching: You will learn how to develop teaching skills to teach people from different age groups and communities.

• Movement and body alignment: You will learn about muscle coordination and posture.

3. Gain experience

If you want to increase your chances of getting a job as a professional dancer, you should consider moving to a city where entertainment thrives. However, take the time to research the arts communities in your area where you can volunteer to dance. You can also gain experience:

• Activities: Participation in dance classes helps you develop your skills, stay physically fit and gain experience. Taking dance classes also increases your chances of getting an audition because the director or choreographer may be familiar with your work or have experience working with you.

• Master Class Attendance: Most of the dance workshops are taught by renowned choreographers and members of dance groups. Choreographers always keep a close eye on who follows instructions and improves. Always try to make a good impression by attending seminars because it may lead to future opportunities. nine0003

4. Find out about union jobs

Major dance companies are unionized, and TV, film and Broadway jobs are unionized. You must have a union card to be eligible to audition. The union card identifies you as a legal union member and allows the union to represent you. Some unions representing dancers are:

• Screen Actors Guild / American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA): They represent dancers, recording artists, emerging writers, stunt performers and other media professionals. nine0003

• Actors Equity Association (AEA): They present Broadway shows.

• American Guild of Musical Performers (AGMA): They represent the New York City Ballet.

• American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA): They represent performing artists.

5. Find a talent agent

Becoming a professional dancer can be tricky; this is why most dancers choose to work with a talent agent. A talent agent is a professional dedicated to helping clients navigate the entertainment industry as well as helping their clients find auditions and submit dance videos and resumes. They facilitate the process of professional dance career. You must take the time to research and find a reputable agent. nine0003

The union usually represents a reputable agent. Laws vary from state to state regarding talent agents, but the agent should not require you to pay anything. They are usually paid a 10% deduction from your earnings when you commission a job. You must find an agent who shares your vision and is interested in you. Asking other dancers or choreographers for recommendations is a step in the right direction, or you can check agency websites to see what kind of clients they represent. You should have these three things in mind before contacting your ideal agency:

• Letter of recommendation: You can ask your dance teacher to write a letter of recommendation that highlights your strengths.

• Resume: Your resume should detail your education and performance experience, including what you've done, the name of the project you've danced in, and who you work for. If you haven't worked on a professional project yet, you can list competitions, local productions, and musicals you've been in to add to your performance experience. nine0003

• Dance video: The agency wants to see your skills, so make sure you record a number that shows your style and talent.

6. Write Your Resume

When you go to an audition, some people may want your resume. Your dance resume should contain important details, including:

• Dance Video: This is a short collection of videos that showcase your skills and experience as a dancer. Usually it is several minutes. You must have a dance video no matter what production or project you are applying for. nine0003

• Headshots: Professional headshots are needed because they help choreographers, agents and casting directors remember you. Headshots also provide choreographers and directors with an easier way to decide which dancers are best suited for a company or production. Your headshots should reflect your current look and be crisp.

• Resume: Your resume should be easy to read, accurate and concise. It must include your full name, phone number, email address, union status, and dance experience. nine0003

7. Go to auditions

Auditions are a huge part of being a dancer. You can showcase your skills and talents to industry professionals. The process can be overwhelming, whether you're going to audition for a dance company or college, but preparing for them can make the process easier and less stressful. Here are some things that can help the audition process:

Review the audition application. Many application forms contain important information about how the audition process works. It is extremely important to make a checklist of dress code requirements and rules to make sure you follow them. nine0003

• Do your research: in some cases, you may already know the choreographer you are performing for. Studying their videos to get an idea of ​​their style can give you an idea of ​​how to deliver great performance.

• Work on your freestyle: Directors or choreographers may want you to freestyle to determine what sets you apart from other dancers. You must practice your freestyle regularly to gain confidence. nine0003

• Rehearse before your audition: For commercial dances, many auditions are done on camera. You should practice your close-ups by asking a friend or family member to film you.

• Get enough sleep: You should get at least eight hours of sleep before your audition to get the energy and focus you need to perform.

• Arrive early: To make a good impression, set your alarm for the morning so you can get ready and leave the house early. nine0003

• Dress appropriately: your clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for the style of the dance, and allow for freedom of movement. Your clothing must also comply with the audition rules. Keep in mind that the judges also want to see your body, so wear something appropriate to show off your form. If you're auditioning in a classical category such as ballet, jazz, or modern dance, wear leotards and tights. Some auditions have stricter rules and require you to wear a uniform. Always follow the rules. nine0003

• Watch the judges' reactions: pay attention to how the judges react to other dancers performing. Observing the judges' facial expressions and body language can help you avoid the same mistakes other dancers make and inspire you to improve your performance.

8. Stay healthy

To have a long professional dance career, you must maintain your health and strength. You should avoid processed foods and eat whole foods instead. Also, get regular exercise with cardio workouts like running, swimming, cycling, and weight lifting to strengthen your muscles. This helps to reduce the number of injuries. nine0003

Skills of a professional dancer

In addition to being talented, you must have skills that will help you have a successful career. These skills are:

• Creativity: You must have interesting, innovative ways to express your ideas through dance.

• Physical strength: You must have excellent mobility and strength to move your body without losing balance or falling, and be able to work for a long time. nine0003

• Interpersonal skills: You must be able to interact effectively with others because you will be working with many people.

• Discipline: You must have a good attitude, follow the rules and meet the requirements.

• Persistence: You must remain committed to your years of study and overcome obstacles and disappointments in the future.

• Active listening: You must be able to pay attention to instructions given by directors and choreographers. nine0003

Salary and Job Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, dancer employment is expected to grow by 2% from 2019 to 2029. Most jobs come from private dance schools. The average salary for a dancer is $45,905 per year ($19.63 per hour).

3 honest stories about the profession - useful articles and tips on the media "Prosto Rabota", Rabota.ru.

Olga Lomakina

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The heroines of Rabota.ru are very different: Anastasia Sizova dances hip-hop with the stars, Ridi Sheikh dreams of Bollywood, and Anastasia Yunzel performs at corporate parties. They are united only by incredible diligence and love for dancing.

Anastasia Sizova-On dance competitions on television and cooperation with Polina Gagarina

Anastasia Sizova

I dance from 10 years old, in high school was carried away by hip-hop and daily trained 5-6 hours a day. Thanks to this, I was able to move to a higher professional level. nine0003

In 2011, I became a member of the Girls community team, with whom we participated in numerous competitions and filming, including the Minute of Glory, the Project 818 and Move forward championships. Gradually, professional acquaintances and work in commercial projects appeared: shooting New Year's programs on federal channels, the ballet of the Just Like It project, shooting in clips, working with artists at various events.

About dance shows

In 2014, a dance project was advertised on Channel One — all the dancers rushed to the casting. After the first qualifying round, the project stalled. A year later, they called me: "The First" resumed the show and called me immediately to the stage of the television selection. nine0003

In “Dance!” several hundred dancers competed. There were three stages of television selection: in each round we came across radically different styles in solos and duets. After going through all the stages, I got into the "top 24".

The first number I got to dance was jazz. My partner was the Cuban Yordanis Forbes. We did not immediately manage to work together, since I am not a jazz player at all, the language barrier also interfered. But by the end of the training, they understood each other already from a half-word. We worked out the number to the maximum. Too bad it wasn't enough - we were weeded out. nine0003

Participation in such a project is a good school, because cool choreographers gave us master classes, introduced us to new styles and put on really strong numbers. It is a pity that the project did not "shoot", like, for example, "Dancing" on TNT.

About working with artists

The first great artist I had the opportunity to work with was Zhanna Friske. With her, I participated in two concerts of the "Slavianski Bazaar" in an additional composition.

In 2015, dancers were also selected for the show "Performance" by Polina Gagarina. They took me to the additional line-up, and after a while they offered me to dance in the main one. nine0003

Polina is a wonderful person and a talented artist who understands and has a sense of humor. We communicate well, but observing subordination, of course. First of all, we have a professional relationship.

How the tour of stars works

I can learn about events in Moscow in three days, but tours are planned about six months in advance.

When signing the contract, it is also specified that all concerts for dancers are obligatory, skipping is possible in exceptional circumstances - fortunately, I have not had such yet. When the schedule is agreed, the administrator marks the working days in our shared calendar. In my free time, I go to master classes, hone my technique. nine0003

In 2016 we had a tour of the Baltics, we also visited London and Vienna, but basically we travel a lot in Russia.

Our usual day on tour goes like this: an overnight flight, breakfast in the city, sleep, and then preparation for an evening concert. The musicians are the first to arrive at the venue for the soundcheck, then the dance team comes. Before the concert, we have a mandatory rehearsal: checking dance drawings, props. There is about an hour and a half left for the training camp: we stretch, make up, comb our hair - and go on stage. nine0003

The show "Polina" consists of three blocks, we go out on the third song of the first part. Between the second and third blocks, we have a separate dance number so that Polina has time to change her costume for the final part of the concert. The third block is the most danceable and active.

After the concert, we take the costumes to the hotel and, as a rule, the whole team goes to dinner. Then sleep, packing and a night flight to another city. Breakfast and preparation for the concert again.

Since I go out without a stage and performances, for me the advantages of such intensive work are almost everything: I do what I love and constantly communicate with talented people. nine0255

Reedy Sheikh about how she became popular in Bangladesh and plans to conquer Bollywood An economist by education, she graduated from the Plekhanov Academy. I worked as a recruiter and selected top managers, but a year and a half ago I heard about a dance project in India - an analogue of "Dances" on TNT - and decided that I would definitely participate. Having missed several seasons of the show due to work and study, I went on vacation at my own expense a year and a half ago and now I am engaged only in dance projects. nine0003

I have always been interested in representing Bengali culture in Russia and other countries. Being away from India and Bangladesh, since childhood I tried to study it thoroughly: I attended master classes at the Indian embassy, ​​watched videos on the Internet. More than 10 years ago, I started uploading dance videos on YouTube myself, and it so happened that now I am considered one of the main YouTubers in Bangladesh.