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Dancers and Choreographers

Many dancers stop performing by their late thirties, but some remain in the field as choreographers, dance teachers, or artistic directors.
Most dancers begin formal training at an early age—between 5 and 15—and many have their first professional audition by age 17 or 18.
Dancers and choreographers face intense competition; only the most talented find regular work.

Job Outlook

Dancers and choreographers face intense competition for jobs. Only the most talented find regular employment.

Employment of dancers and choreographers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2014. The public's continued interest in dance will sustain larger dance companies, but funding from public and private organizations is not expected to keep pace with rising production costs. For many small and midsize organizations, the result will be fewer performances and more limited employment opportunities.

Although job openings will arise each year because dancers and choreographers retire or leave the occupation for other reasons, the number of applicants will continue to vastly exceed the number of job openings.

National dance companies likely will continue to provide jobs in this field. Opera companies and dance groups affiliated with colleges and universities and with television and motion pictures also will offer some opportunities. Moreover, the growing popularity of dance for recreational and fitness purposes has resulted in increased opportunities to teach dance. Finally, music video channels will provide opportunities for both dancers and choreographers.

Source:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Dancers and Choreographers, on the internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos094.htm (visited August 24, 2006).