Film and TV Choreographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of entertainment, the role of Film and TV Choreographers is ever more crucial.

Artistry evolves, and with each evolution, the demand for creative visionaries who can choreograph, enhance, and protect the integrity of our on-screen performances swells.

But let’s strip away the gloss: What’s truly expected from a Film and TV Choreographer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A casting director crafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of choreography for film and television,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Film and TV Choreographer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Film and TV Choreographer Duties and Responsibilities

Film and TV Choreographers play a crucial role in creating, teaching, and implementing dance routines and movement sequences for film and television productions.

They work closely with directors, actors, dancers, and other crew members to bring the vision of the project to life through movement.

The duties and responsibilities of a Film and TV Choreographer include:

• Collaborating with directors and producers to understand the vision and requirements of the film or TV show
• Designing and creating original choreography that aligns with the story, character development, and overall mood of the production
• Teaching the choreographed routines to actors, dancers, or extras involved in the scene
• Coordinating with the camera crew to plan and execute the filming of dance sequences
• Conducting rehearsals to ensure the choreography is executed correctly and looks good on camera
• Adjusting choreography as needed based on feedback from directors, actors, or other crew members
• Ensuring the safety of performers during dance or movement sequences
• Keeping up to date with current dance trends and techniques
• Collaborating with other creative teams, such as costume designers, set designers, and lighting technicians, to enhance the overall visual effect of the dance sequences

 

Film and TV Choreographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented and experienced Film and TV Choreographer to create original dance sequences for our upcoming film and television projects.

The successful candidate will be responsible for creating visually stunning and emotionally engaging dance routines that complement the narrative and overall theme of the project.

The ideal candidate should be highly creative, have a deep understanding of various dance styles, and possess excellent collaboration and communication skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Create and design original dance routines that complement the storylines and themes of our projects.
• Teach and rehearse dance routines with actors and dancers.
• Coordinate with directors and producers to understand the vision and requirements of the project.
• Consider the physical abilities and limitations of performers when creating routines.
• Participate in the casting process by selecting and recommending dancers for specific roles.
• Ensure that all dance sequences are performed safely and correctly.
• Revise and adapt choreography as necessary based on feedback from directors, producers, and performers.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a choreographer for film or television.
• Bachelor’s degree in Dance, Theatre, or related field is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of various dance styles and techniques.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to create innovative and visually stunning dance sequences.
• High degree of physical fitness and stamina.
• Strong leadership skills.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities to work on high-profile film and television projects.

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Film and TV Choreographer
• Work Environment: This role requires a mix of studio, on-location, and office work. Travel may be necessary depending on the project.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director or Producer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Contract or Full-time, depending on project needs.
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at 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 or showreel, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Film and TV Choreographer Do?

Film and TV Choreographers primarily work in the entertainment industry, creating and teaching dance routines for actors and dancers in films, television shows, commercials, and music videos.

Their main role is to design dance sequences that align with the director’s vision and complement the story or theme of the project.

They work closely with the director and other members of the production team to ensure that the dance sequences enhance the overall aesthetic and message of the project.

They are also tasked with teaching these routines to actors or dancers, which involves breaking down complex movements into manageable steps, demonstrating the movements, and providing feedback to improve performance.

Film and TV Choreographers may also be involved in the casting process, helping to choose dancers or actors who have the necessary skills and physical attributes for the choreography.

In addition, they may be responsible for coordinating rehearsals, ensuring safety during dance sequences, and making adjustments to choreography as required during the production process.

Their job requires creativity, patience, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of various dance styles and techniques.

 

Film and TV Choreographer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Film and TV Choreographer should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications such as:

• Dance and performance skills to create and demonstrate dance routines and movements.
• Strong communication skills to effectively convey steps, techniques, and the emotional aspects of the dance to performers.
• Creativity and vision to develop innovative and engaging choreographies that complement the narrative and mood of the film or TV show.
• Physical endurance and flexibility to demonstrate and practice dance routines multiple times.
• Strong leadership and teamwork abilities to manage and work with a diverse group of performers.
• Attention to detail to ensure every movement is performed accurately and synchronizes with other elements such as music and dialogue.
• Knowledge of various dance styles and cultures to incorporate different techniques and movements into the choreography.
• Problem-solving skills to adjust choreography according to the abilities of performers, physical space, or changes in the script.

 

Film and TV Choreographer Experience Requirements

Film and TV Choreographers typically have several years of experience in dance and choreography.

This may include formal training in a dance conservatory, dance school, or university setting where they gain a strong foundation in various dance styles, body movement, and musicality.

Internships or assistant roles with established choreographers or dance companies can be valuable for gaining practical on-the-job experience.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have often worked on smaller projects such as music videos, regional theater, or commercial work.

In these roles, they have developed their choreography skills, the ability to tell a story through dance, and gained experience in working with directors and performers.

Choreographers with over 5 years of experience may have worked on larger-scale projects like national commercials, feature films, or televised performances.

They likely have extensive experience in creating and teaching complex dance routines, managing rehearsals, and adjusting choreography for camera angles and staging considerations.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have a significant portfolio of work and are often well-versed in the creative and logistical aspects of choreography for film and television.

These individuals may also have leadership experience, managing teams of dancers and choreographers, and are suitable for senior choreographer or creative director roles.

 

Film and TV Choreographer Education and Training Requirements

Film and TV Choreographers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

However, many have higher education degrees in dance or related fields such as performing arts, fine arts or choreography.

They typically start their career as dancers to gain practical experience and understanding of movement, rhythm and performance.

Extensive dance training, often from a young age, is crucial.

This training can take place in a dance school, dance studio, or through an apprenticeship with a more experienced choreographer.

Advanced choreography courses, workshops and programs, which often cover areas like dance composition, modern dance techniques, improvisation, movement analysis and dance history, can provide an added advantage.

In addition, Film and TV Choreographers should have a deep understanding of a variety of dance styles, from classical ballet to modern and contemporary styles, as well as the ability to adapt movements for actors with varying levels of dance skills.

There are no specific certifications required, but experience in the field and a strong portfolio showcasing their choreography in various productions are significant credentials in this profession.

Continuing professional development through workshops, industry events, and networking can also enhance career prospects.

 

Film and TV Choreographer Salary Expectations

A Film and TV Choreographer can expect to earn an average salary of $74,560 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can fluctuate based on the choreographer’s experience, the budget of the production, and the location of the filming.

High-profile choreographers working on big-budget projects can earn significantly more.

 

Film and TV Choreographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Film and TV Choreographer need?

Film and TV Choreographers need to have strong dance skills, creativity, and a good understanding of dramatic performances.

They need to be able to visualize and create dance routines that align with the mood and theme of the performance.

They also need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to explain the choreography to dancers and directors, and to respond to feedback.

 

Do Film and TV Choreographers need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly necessary for Film and TV Choreographers, many have studied dance or a related field at a higher education level.

This provides them with a solid foundation in the techniques, history, and theories of dance.

However, practical experience in performing and choreographing dance is often more important.

 

What should you look for in a Film and TV Choreographer resume?

When reviewing a Film and TV Choreographer’s resume, look for extensive experience in choreographing for film, TV, or stage productions.

Training in various styles of dance can also be beneficial.

You should also look for evidence of creativity, leadership, and the ability to work as part of a team.

 

What qualities make a good Film and TV Choreographer?

A good Film and TV Choreographer is highly creative and able to create original, expressive dance routines that align with the director’s vision.

They should be able to communicate their ideas clearly to dancers and be responsive to feedback.

They should also be patient, as it can take time for dancers to perfect complex routines.

 

Is it difficult to hire Film and TV Choreographers?

The difficulty in hiring Film and TV Choreographers can vary depending on the specifics of the production.

For more specialized or complex dance requirements, it may be more challenging to find a suitable Choreographer.

It’s important to consider the Choreographer’s previous experience, creativity, and ability to work under pressure.

Offering competitive pay and a supportive working environment can also help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And so, the final act.

Today, we’ve revealed the dramatic artistry and intricate details that make up a film and TV choreographer‘s role.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about devising dance routines.

It’s about designing the visual rhythm that breathes life into the narrative, one carefully choreographed scene at a time.

Armed with our extensive film and TV choreographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your grand entrance.

But why drop the curtain now?

Take a bow, then continue your journey with our job description generator. It’s your encore to creating meticulously detailed listings or refining your resume to dazzling perfection.

Bear in mind:

Every choreographed scene is a part of the larger narrative.

Let’s stage that narrative. Together.

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