How to Become a Film and Television Choreographer (Twist, Turn, Triumph!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of choreographing captivating sequences for film and television or wondered what it takes to become a professional choreographer, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a film and television choreographer. We’ll talk about:

The skills you need.
The training that can propel your career.
How to land a job as a choreographer in the film and television industry.

So, whether you’re a dance enthusiast or a seasoned professional looking to transition into choreography, stay tuned.

We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become a film and television choreographer.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Film and Television Choreographer

Step 1: Understand the Profession

Before you decide to become a Film and Television Choreographer, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of the profession thoroughly.

Choreography for film and television is more than just designing dance routines; it includes understanding the rhythm and timing of a scene, coordinating movements with dialogues and camera angles, and even working closely with directors and actors to ensure the choreography complements the storyline and character development.

Also, knowledge of various dance styles is crucial as different productions may demand different kinds of choreographies.

It’s a profession that requires creativity, flexibility, and a keen sense of timing and coordination.

Additionally, you should be prepared for a career that may involve long hours, last-minute changes, and working under pressure.

Take the time to watch and analyze different dance sequences in films and television shows, understanding how they contribute to the overall narrative.

Attend dance performances, join dance workshops, and even get some hands-on experience by participating in local theatre productions or amateur film projects.

This will give you a first-hand feel of what the job entails.

Additionally, research the career paths of successful choreographers, understand their journey, and learn from their experiences.

This will not only give you insights into the industry but also help you navigate your own career path more effectively.

Step 2: Acquire a Strong Dance Background

To become a successful Film and Television Choreographer, one must have a strong background in dance.

This means learning multiple styles of dance, understanding the principles of movement, and having a solid foundation in dance theory.

Participating in dance classes and workshops from a young age is recommended to build strong technical skills.

These can range from ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, to world dance forms such as salsa, flamenco, or Bollywood.

Understanding these different styles will make you versatile and adaptable, which is crucial in the film and television industry where the demands can vary significantly from one project to another.

You may also choose to pursue formal education in dance.

This could mean obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dance or a related field.

Formal education often provides comprehensive training in dance theory, history, and composition, which can be invaluable in understanding the art form at a deeper level.

This could also provide opportunities to build connections and network with professionals in the field.

In addition to classes and formal education, gaining practical experience is equally important.

This could involve performing in school productions, community theatre, dance companies, or professional stage shows.

The aim is to not only hone your technical skills but also to understand the dynamics of performance, collaboration, and choreography.

Remember, a successful choreographer is not only a skilled dancer but also a creative storyteller.

So, keep exploring different dance forms, improvising, and creating unique dance pieces to develop your unique style and artistic voice.

Step 3: Pursue Formal Education in Dance or Related Fields

To further your career as a film and television choreographer, it is crucial to acquire formal education in dance or related fields.

This may include obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Dance, Choreography, or even Performing Arts.

In such programs, you will learn about different dance styles, choreography techniques, and the history of dance, among other relevant topics.

During your formal education, you will have the opportunity to study various forms of dance such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and world dance.

This broad exposure will help you to become versatile and adapt to different choreography demands in film and television.

In addition to practical dance classes, your coursework may also include theoretical subjects such as dance history, dance composition, and human anatomy.

You may also learn about costume design, lighting, and other aspects of production that can impact your choreography.

Aside from getting a degree, there are also many dance certification programs available that can further enhance your skills and increase your credibility as a choreographer.

Always remember that the more trained and versatile you are as a dancer, the more opportunities you will have as a choreographer in the competitive world of film and television.

Step 4: Gain Experience in Dance Performance and Choreography

As you’re building your career, it’s essential to gain substantial experience in dance performance and choreography.

This experience will allow you to understand the nuances of different dance styles and the way movements can be used to express emotions and tell a story.

Start by participating in dance performances as a dancer.

This could be in a formal setting such as a dance company, or informal settings like community theatre or local events.

Participating in dance performances gives you firsthand experience of what it’s like to learn and perform choreography, and it helps you build a network in the dance community.

Next, seek opportunities to choreograph pieces.

Start small, perhaps with local community theatre or school productions.

Remember, the goal is to gain experience and develop your style, not necessarily to make a name for yourself right away.

As you get more comfortable with choreographing, you can take on larger projects, maybe even assisting an established choreographer.

This practical experience will not only refine your skills but will also expose you to various aspects of the job, such as working with different directors and performers and adapting to different performance spaces.

It will help you understand the dynamics of creating dance routines for camera versus live audiences, which is critical for a career in film and television choreography.

Remember, the best film and television choreographers often have years of practical dance and choreography experience under their belts.

This depth of experience helps them create powerful, memorable dance scenes that resonate with audiences.

Step 5: Develop Your Own Choreographic Style

In the field of film and television, a choreographer with a unique style is often more sought after.

Therefore, it’s crucial to develop your own signature choreographic style.

This could be heavily influenced by your dance background, your creative instincts, or your response to a particular piece of music or narrative.

Begin by experimenting with different dance styles, movements, and narratives.

Try to explore various genres of dance, such as ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, or even tap dance.

You can learn from other established choreographers but remember, the aim is not to imitate but to create something new that reflects your artistic voice.

You can also attend workshops and dance festivals to expose yourself to various dance forms and choreographic methods.

This will not only help you find your choreographic style but also enhance your understanding of how to effectively communicate stories and emotions through dance.

Once you’ve developed your style, start creating your own works.

It’s important to document your choreographies through video recordings, as this will serve as your portfolio when applying for choreography jobs.

The more unique and compelling your choreographic style, the more likely you are to stand out in the competitive film and television industry.

Remember, developing a distinct choreographic style is a continuous process that evolves as you grow as a choreographer.

Keep exploring, experimenting, and pushing your creative boundaries.

Step 6: Work in Theatre or Other Live Performance Venues

Before becoming a choreographer for film and television, it’s beneficial to gain experience by working in theatre or other live performance venues.

This provides an opportunity to hone your skills in creating and teaching choreography in a real-time setting.

It also allows you to understand the dynamics of performing in front of a live audience and the nuances of staging and blocking.

In a theatre setting, you will likely work with a diverse group of performers, which will enhance your ability to adapt your choreography to different skill levels and styles.

This experience is invaluable when transitioning to film and television, as you may be required to choreograph for actors who may not have a dance background.

During this stage, it’s essential to network with industry professionals, attend workshops, and continuously learn new dance styles and techniques.

Building a strong portfolio by creating original choreographies for theatre productions can also increase your visibility and opportunities in the film and television industry.

Step 7: Collaborate with Directors and Other Creatives

Once you have gathered the necessary skills and experiences, the next step is to work closely with directors, producers, and other creative professionals in the film and television industry.

Your role as a choreographer will involve translating a director’s vision into movement and dance sequences that fit the theme and mood of the project.

You will work with the director to understand their vision for the scenes that involve choreography.

It may be helpful to storyboard or sketch out the movements, discuss the feelings or emotions they want to evoke, and talk through how the dance or movement sequences will fit into the overall narrative.

You may also need to collaborate with other creatives, such as costume designers, set designers, and music composers, to ensure that the choreography aligns with other elements of the production.

Keep in mind that creativity is a team effort in this industry, and collaboration is key to creating a cohesive and compelling final product.

Additionally, you might have to adjust your choreography based on feedback from these professionals, so it’s crucial to maintain open lines of communication and remain receptive to changes.

You may also have to work with the actors or performers to teach them the choreography and ensure they can execute it convincingly and accurately.

Remember that patience and the ability to give clear instructions are essential in this step.

Step 8: Create and Showcase Choreography for Short Films or Music Videos

After you have gained some experience in the industry, one way to further advance your career is by creating and showcasing choreography for short films or music videos.

This allows you to develop your own choreographic voice and style, while also providing you with a platform to demonstrate your capabilities to a larger audience.

Reach out to local filmmakers, film students, or music artists who might need choreography for their projects.

Alternatively, you can create your own projects and upload them on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.

This not only gives you a chance to express your creative vision but also helps you build a portfolio that you can show to potential employers.

Remember, this is your chance to showcase your choreographic skills and creativity, so don’t be afraid to push boundaries and try new things.

Attention to detail, storytelling, and originality can make your work stand out.

Also, make sure your work is professionally filmed and edited to ensure the quality of your portfolio.

This step not only shows your ability to create engaging choreography but also your ability to collaborate with others and your understanding of film and TV production.

Step 9: Network with Industry Professionals

Networking is an essential step for a Film and Television Choreographer.

A strong network can provide you with a wealth of opportunities in the industry.

Attend events, workshops, film festivals, television premieres, and other relevant gatherings where you can meet directors, producers, actors, and other choreographers.

Engage in conversations, ask questions, and build relationships with these industry insiders.

Discuss your experience, your style of choreography and show interest in their work.

Sharing your passion and knowledge about dance can make you memorable.

Additionally, consider joining professional organizations such as the Dance Masters of America or the International Choreographers Association.

These organizations often host events and provide resources that can help you further your career.

Using social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook is also a viable way of connecting with professionals in the field.

Follow people you admire, comment on their posts, share your work, and use these platforms to showcase your choreography.

Remember, it’s not only about who you know but also who knows you.

Networking is a continual process and can open doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships in the film and television industry.

Step 10: Apply for Assistant Choreographer Positions in Film and Television

After gaining some experience in dance and choreography, you should consider applying for positions as an assistant choreographer in film and television.

This is an excellent way to gain experience working in the industry, understanding the unique needs and restrictions of choreographing for screen, and building a professional network.

As an assistant choreographer, you will work closely with the lead choreographer to create and teach dance routines to actors and dancers.

You will learn about interpreting a script, translating director’s vision into dance, managing rehearsals, and adjusting choreography for camera angles and movements.

This role also involves problem-solving, as you will need to adjust dance routines on the spot due to changes in filming schedule, location, or cast performance.

During this time, seek feedback from the lead choreographer and other professionals on the set to continuously improve your skills.

Embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and prove your worth.

The relationships you build here can also be crucial for future opportunities as they might recommend you for other projects or even for lead choreographer roles.

Remember to keep a record of your work during this phase, as this can be added to your professional portfolio which will be essential when applying for full-fledged choreographer positions.

Step 11: Continually Refine and Develop Your Craft

Even after you have secured a role as a Film and Television Choreographer, it’s essential to continue refining and developing your choreography skills.

The industry is always evolving, with new styles and techniques being introduced constantly.

Therefore, you should always be on the lookout for opportunities to learn and grow.

Workshops, master classes, and professional development courses can provide valuable instruction and insight into the latest trends and techniques in choreography.

Attending industry events, such as film festivals and dance conventions, can also provide networking opportunities and expose you to different styles and interpretations.

Further, you should consistently seek and be open to feedback from peers, directors, and dancers.

They can provide unique perspectives that can help improve your work.

Also, watching performances and studying other choreographers’ work can give you inspiration and help you develop new ideas for your own choreography.

Lastly, practicing your skills and experimenting with new ideas and concepts is essential.

Create routines in various styles, work with different types of music and performers, and test new ideas.

This continuous development and refinement will not only make you a better choreographer but also increase your versatility, making you more valuable in the industry.

Step 12: Seek Opportunities as a Head Choreographer in Film and Television.

Once you’ve garnered enough experience and have a strong choreography portfolio, you can start seeking opportunities as a head choreographer in film and television.

This role involves working directly with directors, actors, and dancers to create and teach dance sequences for movies, TV shows, music videos, and commercials.

To find these opportunities, network with industry professionals and join professional dance and choreography organizations to keep up with news about job openings.

Social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, can also be helpful in establishing industry connections and staying updated with job postings.

Remember to constantly update your portfolio with your latest works and always be ready to showcase your unique style and creative vision.

This will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of landing a head choreographer role.

Also, understand that this role requires a lot of responsibility and leadership skills.

As a head choreographer, you’ll not only be creating dance sequences but also managing the dance crew, making sure everyone knows their part and facilitating effective communication between the director and the dancers.

Therefore, develop your leadership, communication, and management skills to excel in this role.

Film and Television Choreographer Roles and Responsibilities

Film and Television Choreographers are responsible for designing and creating dance sequences or movements for characters in film and television productions.

They utilize their understanding of rhythm, pacing, and physicality to convey a story or set a scene.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Dance Choreography

Create, design, and develop dance routines and movements for film and television productions.
Translate scripts, musical scores, or concepts into choreographed performances.
Work with directors and producers to understand the desired mood, tone, and style of the choreography.

Directing and Rehearsing

Teach dance routines and movements to performers.
Direct rehearsals to prepare for filming or live performances.
Ensure that performers execute the choreography as envisioned.

Collaboration

Collaborate with directors, actors, costume designers, and other team members to ensure the choreography aligns with the overall production.
Work closely with music directors to align the choreography with the musical score.

Adaptation

Adapt choreography based on feedback from directors, producers, or performers.
Modify dance routines to suit the skills and abilities of the performers.

Auditions and Casting

Participate in casting and audition processes to select suitable performers.
Evaluate performers’ dancing skills and physical fitness.

Health and Safety

Ensure the physical safety of performers during rehearsals and performances.
Design choreography that respects performers’ physical limitations and prevents injuries.

Documentation

Document choreographic ideas and dance routines.
Maintain and update choreography notes and diagrams.

Research and Development

Research various dance styles, historical periods, and cultures to inform choreography.
Stay updated on current trends in dance and choreography.

Communication

Communicate effectively with the production team and performers.
Present choreographic ideas to directors, producers, and performers.

Training and Development

Conduct workshops and training sessions for performers to improve their dance skills.
Provide feedback and guidance to performers to enhance their performance.

What Does a Film and Television Choreographer Do?

Film and Television Choreographers typically work for film and television production companies, or they may also work as independent professionals.

Their key role is to design and create dance sequences for movies, TV shows, music videos, commercials, and other forms of visual media.

Choreographers work closely with directors, actors, and dancers to develop movements that align with the storyline, characters, and the overall mood of the production.

They conduct rehearsals to teach actors and dancers the choreographed sequences.

These professionals also adapt their choreography to suit the abilities of the performers, ensuring that their movements are safe and feasible.

Film and Television Choreographers sometimes also work with costume designers and music directors to ensure that the dance sequences harmoniously blend with the music and costumes.

They also play an important role in auditions and casting, helping to select dancers or actors who can effectively perform the choreographed movements.

The choreographer is responsible for making any necessary changes to the choreography during the filming process, and ensuring that the final product aligns with the director’s vision and meets the audience’s expectations.

Essential Film and Television Choreographer Skills

Dance Technique: Proficiency in various dance styles and techniques is crucial. This includes classical ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, and potentially cultural dance forms depending on the nature of the project.
Choreography Creation: Choreographers must be able to construct compelling and intricate dance sequences that align with the narrative and tone of the film or television show.
Teaching and Communication: Choreographers should be able to effectively teach the created dance sequences to performers. This includes being able to communicate movements, timing, and emotions clearly.
Physical Fitness and Stamina: Choreography is physically demanding. Choreographers should maintain a high level of physical fitness and stamina to demonstrate and teach dance routines effectively.
Collaboration: Choreographers often work with directors, costume designers, lighting designers, and other artists. They need to collaborate effectively to ensure the dance sequences fit seamlessly into the overall production.
Creativity: Choreographers should have a strong artistic vision and the ability to create unique and engaging dance sequences.
Musicality: Understanding music, rhythm, and timing is critical in choreography. Choreographers must be able to create dance sequences that align with the music’s tempo, mood, and dynamics.
Adaptability: Film and television projects can often have changing requirements. Choreographers must be adaptable and willing to modify choreography as needed.
Knowledge of Film and TV Production: Understanding the basics of film and television production, including camera angles, lighting, and staging, can help choreographers create sequences that work well on screen.
Patient and Motivating: Choreographers need to be patient and motivating when working with performers of varying skill levels. This includes being able to encourage and inspire individuals to deliver their best performances.
Cultural Sensitivity: Depending on the project, choreographers may need to create dances that respect and represent different cultures accurately and sensitively.
Time Management: Choreographers often work on tight schedules and must be able to create and teach choreography within set deadlines.
Leadership: Choreographers are responsible for leading rehearsals and guiding performers. Strong leadership skills are crucial to maintain discipline and cohesion among the cast.
Awareness of Safety: Choreographers must ensure that all movements and sequences are safe for the performers, taking into consideration factors such as physical capabilities, costumes, props, and stage layout.
Ability to Take Criticism: Choreographers should be open to feedback and willing to make revisions to their work based on input from directors, producers, and performers.

Film and Television Choreographer Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Assistant Choreographer

Your journey typically starts as an Assistant Choreographer.

At this stage, you are learning and absorbing knowledge while gaining practical experience.

Your duties may include assisting the choreographer, helping dancers learn movements, and contributing to the creative process.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Learn Continuously: Regularly attend dance workshops, classes and keep up with the latest trends in choreography.
Seek Mentorship: Learn from the choreographer you’re working with and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.
Stay Creative: Immerse yourself in music and dance to inspire your creativity and contribute fresh ideas.

The Ascent: Choreographer

As you gain experience and confidence, you’ll transition into the role of a Choreographer.

You’ll create your own dance routines, collaborate with directors, and become an integral part of the production team.

Here’s how to thrive at this stage:

Storytelling: Develop your ability to tell stories through dance and movement.
Collaboration: Work effectively with directors, performers, and other team members to bring your vision to life.
Adaptability: Learn to adapt your choreography to different styles, spaces, and performers’ abilities.

Reaching New Heights: Lead Choreographer

The next step is the Lead Choreographer position.

At this stage, you’ll be recognized for your expertise and creative vision.

You’ll take on more complex projects, guide other choreographers, and play a significant role in shaping the production.

To excel as a Lead Choreographer:

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help aspiring choreographers grow.
Creative Leadership: Drive the creative direction of the project and inspire others with your choreography.
Problem Solving: Address challenges in staging, performer abilities, and other production elements creatively and efficiently.

Beyond the Horizon: Choreography Director and Beyond

As your career progresses, you might choose to specialize in a particular area, like becoming a Choreography Director or even a Dance Company Director.

Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

Artistic Vision: Lead the artistic vision and shape the creative direction of the project or company.
Leadership Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
Networking: Build relationships with industry professionals to open up new opportunities and collaborations.

Pinnacle of Success: Artistic Director or Executive Choreographer

You may reach roles like Artistic Director or Executive Choreographer at the highest levels of the choreography career ladder.

Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall creative strategy of the company or production, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.

Film and Television Choreographer Salary

Entry-Level Film and Television Choreographer

Median Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
Entry-level choreographers usually have 0-2 years of experience. They typically start their careers working as dancers and may have a bachelor’s degree in dance, performing arts, or a related field.

Mid-Level Film and Television Choreographer

Median Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 per year
Mid-level choreographers have 2-5 years of experience. They often assist senior choreographers in creating and teaching dance routines, and may begin to take on smaller projects independently.

Senior Film and Television Choreographer

Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
Senior choreographers have 5+ years of experience. They are typically responsible for creating and teaching complex dance sequences for film and television productions, and may oversee a team of dancers.

Lead Choreographer / Dance Director

Median Salary: $120,000 – $150,000+ per year
These roles require significant experience and often involve creative and technical leadership, project management, and decision-making. They may also be responsible for coordinating with directors and producers on overall production design and concept.

Artistic Director / Executive Choreographer

Median Salary: $150,000 – $200,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience and a deep understanding of dance and choreography. They often involve setting creative direction for a company or production, and may oversee all dance-related aspects of a project.

Film and Television Choreographer Work Environment

Film and Television Choreographers primarily work in film or television studios.

However, they may also find employment in theaters, performing arts companies, dance schools, or as independent contractors.

These professionals often work long, irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet the demanding schedules of film and television productions.

Their work involves creating, teaching, and rehearsing dance routines with actors and performers.

Due to the nature of the industry, the work can be highly competitive and stressful with tight deadlines and high expectations.

On the other hand, it can also be highly rewarding and exciting, particularly when seeing their choreography come to life on screen.

After gaining significant experience and building a strong reputation, a choreographer may be hired to work on big-budget productions or even have the opportunity to choreograph their own shows or films.

FAQs About Becoming a Film and Television Choreographer

What education or training is needed to become a film and television choreographer?

Choreographers often have a background in dance, with many years of formal training in various dance styles.

Some may also have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dance, theatre arts, or a related field.

In addition to dance skills, choreographers need to have knowledge of physical fitness, injury prevention, and the safe execution of moves.

Finally, they must also have a good understanding of camera angles, framing, and editing, which can be learned through workshops, internships, or on-the-job experience.

How long does it take to become a film and television choreographer?

The path to becoming a film and television choreographer can vary greatly.

Many start their journey as dancers and gradually move into choreography over several years.

After gaining experience as a dancer, they might work as an assistant choreographer before leading their own projects.

The timeframe can range from a few years to a decade or more, depending on the individual’s talent, dedication, and opportunities.

Can I become a film and television choreographer without being a professional dancer?

While it’s possible to become a choreographer without being a professional dancer, it’s uncommon.

The majority of choreographers start their careers as dancers to gain the necessary skills and understanding of movement, rhythm, and performance.

However, if you have a strong creative vision, exceptional leadership skills, and a deep understanding of dance, you might be able to work your way into choreography without a professional dance background.

Is being a film and television choreographer a stressful job?

Being a film and television choreographer can be stressful at times, given the high expectations, tight production schedules, and the physical demands of the job.

However, the level of stress can vary depending on the project, the team you’re working with, and your personal coping strategies.

Despite the challenges, many choreographers find the job immensely rewarding, as it allows them to express their creativity and contribute to the world of entertainment in a unique way.

What are the career prospects for film and television choreographers?

The demand for choreographers in film and television tends to fluctuate based on trends in the entertainment industry.

However, the ongoing popularity of dance-based reality shows, musicals, and movies that incorporate dance sequences suggests that there will continue to be opportunities in this field.

Choreographers who can adapt to different styles and trends, and who have a solid understanding of film and television production, are likely to have the best prospects.

Conclusion

There you have it.

Embarking on the journey to become a film and television choreographer is undoubtedly challenging, but equally rewarding.

Armed with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the world of entertainment.

Remember, the path may be grueling, but the opportunities are boundless. Your choreographies could lead to the next iconic dance sequence that captures the imagination of audiences worldwide.

So, take that first step. Plunge into learning. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop choreographing.

Because the world is waiting for your artistic vision.

And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in choreography, check out our AI Career Path Advisor.

This free tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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