Are you passionate about dance? Do the rhythms of music make your heart skip a beat and your feet start moving? In this step-by-step guide on how to become a dancer, we will explore the various paths you can take to turn your love for dance into a fulfilling career.
Prerequisites for an Aspiring Dancer
Becoming a dancer requires dedication, discipline, and a true passion for the art form.
To embark on a successful career as a dancer, it's essential to possess certain skills. These include:
- Physical fitness
- Grace
- Coordination
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Discipline
- Ability to express emotions through movement
Education and Training Requirements for Dancers
To pursue a dance career, you don't necessarily need a formal education. However, acquiring professional training is essential to developing the necessary skills and techniques.
Many dancers start their training at a young age by joining dance schools or academies. These institutions offer various programmes in different dance styles, such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, or Indian classical dances like Bharatanatyam or Kathak.
Bachelor's Degree in Dance
A bachelor's degree in dance typically spans over three to four years and is designed to give students a solid foundation in dance techniques and theory. The curriculum includes practical classes where you will receive training in different dance forms.
Alongside practical training, you will also study core subjects like dance history, choreography principles, music appreciation for dancers, anatomy and kinesiology, and stagecraft. These subjects help you develop a broader understanding of the art form and its cultural significance.
As part of your coursework, you may also have the opportunity to collaborate with other performing arts disciplines, like music or theatre.
Master's Degree in Dance
A master's degree in dance is an advanced programme that allows dancers to specialise further within their chosen genre or focus on areas such as choreography or education. This programme usually takes two years to complete.
During the course of your master's degree studies, you will delve deeper into your preferred style of dance through advanced technique classes. You will also engage in research projects exploring topics related to dance history, critical analysis of performances, or innovative approaches to movement.
In addition to practical training and research work, master's programmes place emphasis on professional development skills such as teaching methodologies for aspiring educators or entrepreneurial skills for those interested in setting up their own dance companies.
Job Roles and Career Opportunities for Dancers
- As a dancer, you have various career opportunities across different sectors.
- You can choose to join professional dance companies or perform as a freelance dancer for stage productions, music videos, commercials, or movies.
- Many dancers also become instructors at dance studios or schools to teach aspiring dancers.
- Additionally, there are opportunities for dancers in the entertainment industry, such as theme parks, cruise ships, and live events.
- Some dancers explore avenues in television shows as background performers or contestants in reality dance competitions.
- Moreover, corporate events and private functions often require dancers to perform during celebrations or promotional events.
- Behind the scenes, dance company administrators handle the logistical aspects of running a professional dance company. They manage finances, coordinate performances and tours, handle marketing and promotion, and ensure the smooth functioning of the organisation.
Salary Prospects for Dancers
The salary of a dancer can vary based on factors such as experience, skill level, reputation, specialisation, location, and type of employment.
It's important to note that income as a dancer can fluctuate since it largely depends on the availability of opportunities and contracts at any given time.
Upskilling and Reskilling Opportunities
To enhance your skills as a dancer and stay competitive in the industry, upskilling or reskilling through additional courses is highly beneficial.
Many renowned dance institutes offer certification programmes in various dance styles and techniques. These courses delve deeper into specific aspects of dance, helping you refine your technique and broaden your artistic horizons.
Additionally, you can opt for workshops and masterclasses conducted by experienced dancers or attend international dance festivals to learn from renowned professionals in the field.
Dance your Way to a Successful Career
In conclusion, pursuing a career in dance can be an exciting and fulfilling choice for those with a passion for movement and creativity. Read about the career in dance after 12th, on WiZR. Remember that developing your skills as a dancer is an ongoing process. Reach out to the experts at WiZR for guidance on upskilling courses and certifications to enhance your career as a dancer.
FAQs
1. What are the challenges of being a dancer?
Some challenges faced by dancers include intense physical demands, competition for limited opportunities, potential financial instability, and the need for continuous practice and self-discipline.
2. Which is the highest-paying job in dance?
The highest-paying job in dance varies depending on factors such as experience, reputation, and opportunity. Choreographers or established performers can earn lucrative salaries.
3. Which are the best schools or studios to learn dance?
Several reputed institutions in India offer quality training in various forms of dance. Some notable names include Shiamak Davar Institute of Performing Arts (SDIPA), Terence Lewis Dance Academy (TLDA), Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts, Nrityagram Dance Village, and The Danceworx Academy.
4. Can I pursue dance as a full-time career in India?
Yes, you can pursue dance as a full-time career in India. There are various avenues, such as performing on stage, joining professional dance companies, working in the film industry, or becoming a choreographer.
5. How long does it take to become a professional dancer?
The journey to becoming a professional dancer varies for each individual. It depends on factors such as starting age, talent, dedication, training intensity, and the level of proficiency you aim to achieve. Generally, it takes several years of consistent training and practice.
