There is a point for every dancer when deciding to continue dance and whether to treat it as a passion or a career (or both!) becomes important. For many dancers this comes around high school graduation and college decision season. Deciding which path to take can be confusing. There are so many options, and it can be hard to know what’s right for you. Here’s a look at some of those options and tips for finding out what might be your professional dance path.
Music Videos
A great option for any dancer that likes versatility and new adventures, music videos give you opportunities to work with a variety of artists from big names like Rihanna and Taylor Swift to up-and-coming performers. Dancers that enjoy dancing in different styles and have a love of hip hop will always find projects that interest them in music videos.
On-Screen
Do you like the character work of dance? Taking on different roles and working on sets with producers and actors is a great option for dancers that want to be on-screen but want to be involved in a story. From shows that revolve around dancing like Dance Academy to shows and movies that feature dance, there’s room to expand an explore in this area of professional dance.
Theater
Theater is, of course, the perfect option if you enjoy musical theater and being on stage. For dancers that love acting and singing as well, theater is what triple-threat creatives aspire to. Many of your favorite performers grew up doing theater, and if that’s your background as well, moving in that direction as a professional can make the transition from studio to career easier.
Ballet Company
If you know that ballet is your favorite style of dance, then this is an obvious route to take. Chasing your dreams at top ballet schools and companies is a big deal, so knowing what your priorities are as a dancer and even where in the world you want dance to take you are important.
Dance Instructor
If you enjoy the work of dance, making up combos, working with kids, and giving corrections, becoming an instructor might be a perfect fit. Depending on where you’re at in your dance career, you can start out as a teacher’s assistant and work your way up to being a dance instructor and teaching your own classes/combos. If you love being part of a local community, teaching at a studio could be your calling, but if you want to work with lots of dancers, chasing your dreams as a choreographer may be your path.
These paths are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to options for a career as a dancer, and you don’t necessarily have to choose just one! Choose something that makes you feel happy and fulfilled, and like everything in dance, be flexible!
