Aspiring dancers can choose from a long list of training possibilities.
Private lessons, training with a dance company, joining a dance crew, bachelor's
and master's degrees are all options.
Post-secondary education is not required to become a dancer. However, if
you plan to take dance to the professional level, these programs offer great
preparation and excellent opportunities to make contacts in the industry.
Students can find bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degrees with a concentration
in dance performance. These degrees are also available at the master's level.
Bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BSc) degrees are offered
in dance by some universities. These programs often include courses and studio
work in dance, movement analysis, technique, choreography, theory, dance history
and criticism.
Most programs give students a chance to perform. Students usually have
to audition as part of the admission process. Students will be judged based
on their current ability, potential, and passion for learning and the arts.
Entry can be competitive.
"The program involves rigorous training, and high-level academic achievement
is expected. The nature of the program requires full dedication for a student
who is serious about pursuing a career in dance," says Merry Lynn Morris.
She is the academic advisor and an instructor in the School of Theater and
Dance at the University of South Florida. The dance program offers a BA in
dance studies and a BFA in dance performance.
"Most college programs in dance use ballet and modern dance as a fundamental
base of technique. Some emphasize one over the other and may also incorporate
ballroom dance, world dance, tap, jazz or other types of dance within the
core program," says Morris.
Because of the different emphases, students should look for a program that
fits with their interests and goals.
"We are a contemporary program that focuses on performance and creation
and integrates thinking and doing. It is a good program for people who are
open to exploring new ways of dancing and thinking about art," says Judith
Garay. She is a dance professor. Her program offers contemporary/modern technique
classes grounded in classical modern styles. Students also learn post-modern,
ballet and improvisation.
"I frequently find that students are interested in what they have already
been exposed to. As they study new forms of dance, their perspective frequently
changes radically. I recommend that students study outside their comfort range
because being a well-rounded dancer is an asset whatever one's ultimate career
goal is," says Garay.
Morris recommends visiting the campus and watching the classes. Students
should try to determine if the program would be the right "fit" for them.
They should try to meet faculty, students and alumni, and ask questions about
the reputation of the program and the curriculum.
Class size is important to ensure that there will be enough individual
attention to develop as a dancer.
Students should also look for a program that will prepare them for a career
after graduation.
"To be competitive in the dance world, a dancer must be versatile and
able to adapt to multiple styles. Ballet has always traditionally been a healthy
foundation which provides an important base of body knowledge for the dancer.
A student should be exposed to ballet technique, regardless of their particular
dance interest," says Morris. A consistent mixture of modern and ballet training
seems ideal, adds Morris.
To prepare for a career in dance, high school students should begin to
train in ballet. They should also get as much experience in other dance styles
as possible.
"Being active both physically and mentally is definitely an asset. Visit
the art gallery and go the theatre to see dance performances of professional
works whenever possible," says Garay.
In addition to class fees and college tuition, dancewear and shoes are
an additional cost. Students should also be prepared to pay for admission
to performances where they will study professional dancers' techniques. Some
textbooks will be required.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Dancers
and Choreographers
Dance USA
A great collection of resources and opportunities for dancers
American Ballet Theater
Learn more about a ballet company
National Dance Council of America
Lots of great information about pursuing a career in the dance
industry