If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a professional dancer, you’ve probably heard the same advice over and over again: “You have to move to LA.” While Los Angeles is definitely a huge center for the dance industry, it’s not the only place where dancers can build successful careers. Thanks to social media, online classes, conventions, and virtual auditions, there are more opportunities than ever before to get noticed, no matter where you live. If you’re chasing your dance dreams from your hometown, don’t let where you live stop you. Only YOU can stop you.
Focus on Becoming the Best Dancer You Can Be
It can be tempting to compare yourself to dancers who train in major cities, but remember that your growth is in your own hands. They might seem like they are so much more advanced or “cool,” but you can continue to challenge yourself with your own resources. Keep taking class, challenge yourself with different styles, work on your technique, and never stop learning. Your location doesn’t determine your work ethic, your passion, or your willingness to improve. Those are the things that truly help dancers stand out, not what city they live in.
Use Social Media as Your Stage
One of the biggest advantages dancers have today is the ability to share their talent with the world. You no longer have to wait for someone to discover you in person. The whole world is at your fingertips because of your phone. Post class videos, choreography, freestyles, performances, and even behind-the-scenes moments from your training. You never know who might come across your videos, whether it’s a choreographer, casting director, dance company, or another dancer who opens the door to a new opportunity. It is a great way to let your personality and talents shine for everyone to see!
Take Classes Whenever You Can
If professional teachers aren’t nearby, look for opportunities beyond your hometown. Attend conventions, workshops, master classes, or summer intensives whenever possible. Even if you can only travel a few times a year, those experiences expose you to new teachers, new styles, and dancers from all over the country. Every class is another chance to learn and make connections. Make every single moment count. These are your chances to show everyone what you’re made of.
Create Opportunities Instead of Waiting for Them
Not every opportunity will magically appear in your hometown. That’s okay! Sometimes, you just have to create your own chances. Film your own concept videos. Choreograph pieces with your friends. Start a dance social media account. Perform at community events. Audition for local productions. Volunteer to assist younger classes. Every experience helps you grow as both a dancer and an artist, and those experiences add up over time.
Your zip code doesn’t determine your future. Your passion, persistence, and willingness to keep growing do. The dance industry is bigger than one city, and there’s room for your story, wherever it begins.
