How to become a dancer

How to become a Dancer

Becoming a dancer requires a combination of passion, dedication, and training. Here are the key steps to pursue a career as a dancer:

• Start Early and Develop a Foundation: Begin dancing at a young age if possible, as it allows for a longer period of training and skill development. Enroll in dance classes at a reputable dance studio or school to receive formal training. Focus on building a strong technical foundation in various dance styles such as ballet, jazz, contemporary, or hip-hop.
• Expand Your Training: Seek opportunities to diversify your dance training. Take classes in different styles, attend workshops, and participate in summer intensives or dance camps to broaden your dance vocabulary and enhance your versatility as a dancer.
• Pursue a Dance Education: Consider pursuing a formal dance education through a college or university dance program. Research institutions that offer dance degrees or majors and find a program that aligns with your goals and interests. These programs provide structured training, performance opportunities, and a broader understanding of dance history, theory, and choreography.
• Attend Auditions and Workshops: Participate in auditions and workshops conducted by dance companies, choreographers, and renowned institutions. Auditions can be competitive, but they provide a chance to showcase your skills and potentially secure positions in professional dance companies, musical theater productions, or other performance opportunities.
• Build Performance Experience: Gain performance experience by participating in recitals, showcases, and community performances. Seek opportunities to perform with local dance companies, student productions, or dance festivals. This experience helps refine your stage presence, adaptability, and confidence as a performer.
• Seek Professional Training Programs: Explore professional training programs and dance intensives offered by prestigious institutions, companies, or renowned choreographers. These programs often provide immersive training, exposure to industry professionals, and networking opportunities that can open doors to further opportunities.
• Network and Collaborate: Establish connections within the dance community by attending dance conventions, workshops, and industry events. Network with instructors, choreographers, and fellow dancers to expand your professional circle and increase your chances of finding opportunities and collaborations.
• Create a Professional Portfolio: Develop a professional dance portfolio that showcases your training, performances, and any notable achievements. Include high-quality photos, videos of performances, and a well-structured resume highlighting your dance experience, training, and skills.
• Continuously Train and Improve: Dance is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. Dedicate yourself to continuous training, whether through classes, workshops, or private lessons. Stay updated with the latest dance trends, techniques, and choreographic styles.
• Audition and Seek Opportunities: Regularly audition for dance companies, productions, or gigs that align with your style and interests. Stay informed about audition notices, both locally and nationally. Utilize online platforms, networking connections, and dance industry resources to find opportunities that match your aspirations.
• Stay Physically and Mentally Healthy: Maintain your physical and mental well-being as a dancer. Take care of your body through proper nutrition, conditioning exercises, and injury prevention practices. Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy mindset.

Helpful Resources
There are several helpful resources available for dancers, such as:

• Dance Organizations and Associations: Joining dance organizations and associations can provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support for dancers. Examples include the Dance/USA, National Dance Education Organization (NDEO), and International Association for Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS). These organizations offer access to educational materials, conferences, workshops, and publications related to dance.
• Dance Publications and Magazines: Stay updated with the latest news, trends, and insights in the dance world by subscribing to dance publications and magazines. Dance Magazine, Pointe Magazine, and Dance Spirit are popular publications that feature articles, interviews, and resources for dancers.
• Dance Festivals and Conventions: Attend dance festivals and conventions that offer workshops, masterclasses, performances, and networking opportunities. Events like the Dance Teacher Summit, JUMP Dance Convention, and Regional Dance America Festivals bring together dancers, teachers, and industry professionals to inspire, educate, and connect.
• Online Platforms and Communities: Utilize online platforms dedicated to dance to access resources, connect with other dancers, and find audition and job opportunities. Websites such as DancePlug, Dance.net, and Dance/USA's Dance/USAdance listing can be valuable resources for dancers.
• Professional Dance Companies and Studios: Research professional dance companies and studios in your area or the area where you aspire to work. Many of them offer classes, workshops, and open auditions for aspiring dancers. By attending classes or workshops offered by these organizations, you can receive training, gain exposure, and potentially make valuable connections.
• Scholarships and Grants: Explore scholarship and grant opportunities specifically designed for dancers. Organizations like the Dance/USA Fellowships to Artists, New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA), and the Princess Grace Foundation-USA offer financial support to dancers for training, research, or artistic development.
• Dance-related Websites and Blogs: Explore dance-related websites and blogs that provide information, tips, and resources for dancers. Dance Advantage, The Ballet Bag, and The Dance Enthusiast are examples of platforms that offer articles, interviews, and educational content.

Social Media Platforms
It may be helpful to follow dance-related accounts, choreographers, companies, and industry professionals on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. They often share updates, tutorials, and insights that can be beneficial for dancers.

Instagram:

• @worldwideballet: Showcasing stunning ballet photography and videos from around the world.
• @dancemagazine: Dance Magazine's official Instagram account featuring news, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content.
• @kylehanagami: Choreographer Kyle Hanagami shares his innovative and captivating dance routines.
• @maddieziegler: Maddie Ziegler, a renowned dancer and performer, shares her journey, performances, and collaborations.
• @willdabeast__: Will "WilldaBeast" Adams, a renowned choreographer, shares his energetic dance routines and tutorials.

YouTube:

• DanceOn: A dance-focused YouTube channel featuring original dance content, tutorials, interviews, and performances.
• Matt Steffanina: Choreographer Matt Steffanina's YouTube channel offers dance tutorials, routines, and collaborations with popular artists.
• 1MILLION Dance Studio: A channel featuring dance videos and tutorials from instructors at the renowned 1MILLION Dance Studio in Seoul, South Korea.
• DancingWithYT: A YouTube channel dedicated to sharing dance-related news, interviews, performances, and tutorials.
• The Kinjaz: The official YouTube channel of The Kinjaz, a highly skilled dance crew known for their dynamic performances and creativity.

Facebook:

• Dance Informa: A Facebook page providing news, articles, and resources for dancers across various genres and styles.
• DancePlug: Sharing dance-related articles, interviews, tutorials, and audition information on their Facebook page.
• Dance Spirit Magazine: The Facebook page of Dance Spirit Magazine, featuring articles, tips, and videos for dancers.
• Dancing Opportunities: A Facebook group that shares audition notices, job postings, and performance opportunities for dancers.
• Dance Magazine: The official Facebook page of Dance Magazine, featuring articles, interviews, and industry updates.

Twitter:

• @dance_spiritmag: The Twitter account of Dance Spirit Magazine, offering dance news, articles, and insights.
• @SYTYCDanceOn: The official Twitter account of the TV show "So You Think You Can Dance," sharing updates, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content.
• @BroadwayWorldDance: A Twitter account dedicated to reporting on Broadway dance news, performances, and industry developments.
• @DanceInforma: The Twitter account of Dance Informa, providing dance-related news, articles, and resources.
• @dancemagazine: Dance Magazine's Twitter account, offering news, articles, and features about the dance world.