What Kind of Steps Do You Need to Take to Become a Professional Dancer?
- Professional dancers typically receive formal training throughout their careers. Most dancers start formal dance classes between the ages of 5 and 15, according to the BLS. Beginning dancers learn the fundamentals of dance. As the dancer progresses in her training, she generally selects a style of dance and starts taking formal classes specific to that style. These classes can last several hours and take place several days a week.
- Traditionally, a professional dancer does not need a bachelor's degree to obtain a job in the entertainment industry. However, many universities offer four-year degrees in dance. Having this degree can help a dancer build his resume. Most universities require that an applicant have several years of professional dance training and complete an audition before joining a dance degree program.
- Practice is a fundamental part of becoming a professional dancer and maintaining a career as a dancer. Most dancers practice daily throughout their careers, and practice sessions can last several hours. These sessions help keep dancers in peak physical condition while also helping them improve their skills. Dancers also attend rehearsal for upcoming productions. Rehearsal can happen several times a week and last throughout a production.
- In order for a dancer to land a professional job, she generally must audition. During the audition, the dancer preforms for one or more people involved in the musical production. She may get called back on one or more auditions before landing a role.
