Broadway Choreographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vibrant world of theatre, the spotlight on Broadway choreographers has never been more dazzling.

As performing arts continue to captivate audiences, the demand for creative minds who can craft, enhance, and preserve our theatrical narratives through movement grows stronger.

But let’s pull back the curtain: What’s truly expected from a Broadway choreographer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A casting director outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of Broadway choreography,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Broadway choreographer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or theater websites.

Let’s take center stage and begin.

Broadway Choreographer Duties and Responsibilities

Broadway Choreographers create and teach routines to performers for Broadway shows.

They typically work with the director to create choreography that enhances the story and character development.

Broadway Choreographers are primarily responsible for the following duties:

• Create original dance routines that enhance the story, mood, and character development
• Work closely with the director and musical director to ensure the choreography complements the music and overall direction of the show
• Teach routines to performers, adapting the movements to suit their abilities
• Audit and select dancers for specific roles in the production
• Rehearse with the cast to perfect choreography and work on character interpretation
• Review and modify routines as needed throughout the rehearsal process
• Ensure the safety of performers by implementing and maintaining safe dance practices
• Coordinate with stage management to ensure dance numbers are executed smoothly during performances
• Give feedback to performers to help them improve their dance skills and performance

 

Broadway Choreographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a talented and experienced Broadway Choreographer to craft stunning and memorable dance routines for our productions.

The Broadway Choreographer’s responsibilities include collaborating with the director to understand the script, designing creative dance routines, and coaching performers to execute them flawlessly.

Our ideal candidate is someone with a thorough understanding of various dance styles, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to translate a narrative into expressive dance moves.

Prior experience in creating choreography for Broadway shows is highly desirable.

 

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with the director and creative team to interpret and understand the script and the characters
• Designing dance routines that align with the narrative and characters of the production
• Coaching performers and ensuring flawless execution of dance routines
• Attending rehearsals and providing constructive feedback to performers
• Modifying dance routines as per the director’s feedback or based on performers’ abilities
• Ensuring the safety of performers during intense dance routines
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest trends in Broadway choreography

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Choreographer, preferably in Broadway productions
• Proficiency in various dance styles including ballet, contemporary, jazz, and tap
• Ability to interpret a story through dance moves
• Excellent leadership and coaching skills
• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills
• Physical stamina and flexibility
• A degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or a related field would be advantageous

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Access to exclusive Broadway shows and events

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Broadway Choreographer
• Work Environment: Rehearsal studios, theaters. Requires flexible work hours including evenings and weekends.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of the production.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $125,000 maximum
• Location: New York, NY
• Employment Type: Contractual
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio of previous works, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Broadway Choreographer Do?

Broadway Choreographers work primarily in the theater industry, creating dance routines for theatrical productions.

They are integral to Broadway shows, adding the element of movement and dance to enhance the performance.

They collaborate closely with the director, set designers, and lighting designers to create a cohesive vision for the performance.

Choreographers are responsible for designing and teaching dance routines to the actors and ensuring that these routines align with the overall theme and story of the production.

Broadway Choreographers also conduct rehearsals, often working long hours to perfect each routine.

They need to ensure that the actors can execute the choreography correctly and safely while still delivering a compelling performance.

They may also be involved in the casting process, helping to select dancers and actors who can best perform the choreography.

Broadway Choreographers may also be responsible for staging non-dance movements of actors on stage, including fight scenes and other physically expressive scenes.

Ultimately, they are responsible for all visual, movement-based aspects of a Broadway production, using dance and movement to tell a story and captivate the audience.

 

Broadway Choreographer Qualifications and Skills

A Broadway Choreographer must have a variety of creative, technical, and leadership skills, including:

• Expertise in various styles of dance and the ability to create unique and captivating routines for a variety of theatrical productions.
• Strong communication skills to convey ideas and instructions to the performers, directors, and other members of the production team.
• Excellent leadership abilities to manage and motivate a diverse group of performers, ensuring they are able to accurately and effectively perform the choreography.
• Stamina and physical fitness to demonstrate and teach dance moves, and to maintain a high-energy working environment.
• Outstanding creativity to devise and deliver innovative and dynamic dance routines that align with the director’s vision and enhance the overall performance.
• Exceptional attention to detail to ensure every movement, transition, and alignment is precise and contributes to the overall aesthetic of the performance.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced, often unpredictable theater environment.
• Strong understanding of music, rhythm, and timing to choreograph movements that synchronize perfectly with the score.

 

Broadway Choreographer Experience Requirements

Broadway choreographers often start their journey with extensive formal dance training, which includes ballet, jazz, hip hop, modern dance, and other dance forms.

They may possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in dance, theater, or related fields.

Most Broadway choreographers have spent years as professional dancers, gaining invaluable experience in performance, interpretation, and techniques.

This hands-on experience is crucial for understanding the physical capabilities of performers and the creative aspects of translating a script into movement.

Internship or assistant positions with established choreographers or theater companies are common starting points for gaining practical experience in choreography.

These roles provide the opportunity to learn aspects of choreography such as creating and teaching routines, rehearsing with performers, and collaborating with directors and other production staff.

Broadway choreographers with around 5 years of experience would typically have some notable works in smaller productions, regional theaters, or touring companies.

They are expected to have honed their choreographic style, mastered their leadership and communication skills, and familiarized themselves with the logistical aspects of production.

Choreographers with over 10 years of experience are likely to have significant choreographic credits in large-scale productions, and often bring with them a reputation for excellence in their work.

At this level, they may also have experience in other facets of theater production, like directing or producing.

Their extensive experience allows them to effectively manage the demands of choreographing for Broadway’s grand stages.

 

Broadway Choreographer Education and Training Requirements

A Broadway Choreographer typically has a bachelor’s degree in dance or a related field.

Many also have additional training in specific styles of dance, such as ballet, jazz, or modern dance.

It’s critical for Broadway Choreographers to have a deep understanding of choreographic principles and techniques.

This knowledge is typically gained through years of dance training and experience.

Some Broadway Choreographers may also study acting, directing, and music to better understand how choreography fits into a larger theatrical production.

This cross-disciplinary training can also be beneficial when working with actors and directors during the rehearsal process.

While not mandatory, gaining a Master’s degree in dance or choreography can elevate a candidate’s profile.

This advanced degree often provides a more in-depth study of choreography theory and practice and may include additional training in areas such as dance history, pedagogy, and performance theory.

Certain certifications, such as the American Choreography Certification, can also serve as evidence of professional skill and commitment to the field.

This certification involves demonstrating competence in a range of choreographic skills and techniques.

In addition to formal education and training, a Broadway Choreographer must have extensive professional dance experience.

Many successful Broadway Choreographers began their careers as dancers, gradually working their way up to the role of Choreographer.

Continual learning and staying updated with the latest dance trends, techniques, and styles is an inherent part of being a Broadway Choreographer.

Attending workshops, seminars, and dance festivals can provide these learning opportunities and also help in networking within the industry.

 

Broadway Choreographer Salary Expectations

A Broadway Choreographer earns an average salary of $74,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can significantly vary depending on the success and popularity of the show, level of experience, reputation, and geographic location.

 

Broadway Choreographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Broadway Choreographer need?

A Broadway Choreographer needs to have a deep understanding of dance styles, techniques, and rhythms.

They should have excellent communication skills to effectively share their vision with performers.

Choreographers must also possess leadership skills, creativity, and an ability to collaborate with directors, composers, and designers.

Having a solid understanding of stagecraft and the ability to interpret a script into dance is also critical.

 

Do Broadway Choreographers need a degree?

Although a degree is not always required to become a Broadway Choreographer, many professionals in the field have a bachelor’s degree in dance, choreography, or a related field.

Some even have a master’s degree.

However, substantial experience in the field of dance and choreography, along with a strong portfolio of work, can often compensate for lack of formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Broadway Choreographer’s resume?

Look for a strong background in dance, choreography, and theatre, with a focus on experience in creating and staging performances.

Evidence of leadership, collaboration and creativity is also important.

Participation in dance training programs, workshops, and performances, as well as any awards or recognition for their work, should also be considered.

 

What qualities make a good Broadway Choreographer?

A good Broadway Choreographer has a strong vision, creativity, and an ability to transform ideas into physical movements.

They have a deep understanding of musicality, rhythm, and timing.

Their leadership skills enable them to effectively guide and inspire performers.

Additionally, they should have strong problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to work well under pressure.

 

How can I assess a Broadway Choreographer’s abilities during an interview?

During an interview, ask for examples of their past choreographed works and their inspiration behind them.

You can also request a demonstration of their choreographic process, ask them to interpret a piece of music, or request a live or video audition.

Discuss their experience with different dance styles and how they manage dancers of varying skill levels.

Their responses will provide insights into their creativity, flexibility, and ability to work with a team.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we lifted the curtain on what it truly entails to be a Broadway choreographer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about teaching dance steps.

It’s about choreographing the rhythm of Broadway, one dance step at a time.

With our comprehensive Broadway choreographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all ready to take the stage.

But why halt your journey there?

Uncover more with our job description generator. It’s your next leap to impeccably crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every dance move contributes to the larger spectacle.

Let’s choreograph that spectacle. Together.

How to Become a Broadway Choreographer (Complete Guide)

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