Dance Careers Beyond Performing
Although many aspiring professional dancers go through degree programs in order to hone their skills, not all of them go on to perform on the stage. Yes, some do join professional dance companies or go on to appear on Broadway, in music videos and in tour productions. However, plenty of dancers with college degrees in the field end up with careers that are related to dance, even though they aren't the ones appearing on stage themselves. Here are just a few of the careers available to you with a degree in dance.
Choreographer
Choreographers not only need to have deep knowledge of many styles of dance, but they also need to know how dancers move – and how to teach those moves. A choreographer may not appear on stage during a performance, but they play a key role in how those on stage dance, because they plan out the movements and help make the director's vision come to life.
Dance Teacher
Dance teachers work at many different levels, from those who teach elementary, middle, and high schoolers (and have degrees in dance and in teaching), to those who work for or own and operate dance schools.
Dance Therapist
Like art therapy, a dance therapist helps people work through emotional, behavioral and mental issues by dancing. This career starts with a degree in dance, which provides the groundwork for their movements, and also requires a degree in psychology with a specialization in therapy.
Production Designer
Production designers are involved in every aspect of a theatre, television, movie, or concert production. They create props for the dancers, help the costume designers make their visions come to life, plan the lighting arrangements and more. Most productions wouldn't be able to take place without a production designer on staff.
Costume Designer
Someone needs to design the costumes for the dancers, and no one is better for the job than someone with a background in dance. A person who knows the various dances and movements that are expected can design costumes that properly flow as the dancers move, ensuring that the costumes enhance, rather than inhibit, their movements.
Dance Apparel Retailer
Want to own a dance apparel store? These specialty stores sell dance clothing, shoes, and related accessories – everything required for dancers of all ages and sizes, regardless of the type of dance that they prefer. While running a store will require a degree in business or marketing along with dance, someone with a dance background will know exactly what to stock and how to help customers find what they need.
Dance Critic
A professional dance critic is someone who writes for either an online or print publication (sometimes both), critiquing the performances of those on stage. Knowing and understanding the various types of dances are required for the job, as this makes it easier to put together a proper critique. Many dance critics have backgrounds and degrees in dance, providing proof of their knowledge.
Working in a Related Field
Many people who receive a degree in dance go on to work in other related fields as well. They may not be on stage, but they can work backstage to ensure that the show goes on.
Regardless of your particular interests, a career in dance has endless possibilities! Ready to take the first step? .