Professional Choreographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vibrant world of dance and performance, the role of professional choreographers has never been more crucial.

Artistry evolves with time, and with each new rhythm, the demand for gifted individuals who can craft, refine, and protect our dance culture heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a professional choreographer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate art of choreography,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable professional choreographer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dance right into it.

Professional Choreographer Duties and Responsibilities

Professional Choreographers are responsible for creating original dance routines and movements, often for dancers to perform in various productions such as theatre, television shows, movies, music videos, and dance recitals.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Interpreting the ideas and needs of directors or clients to create and execute choreography
• Creating and teaching original dance routines and movements to performers
• Working closely with directors to determine and implement the dance elements of a production
• Directing auditions and rehearsals
• Staging and sequencing dance routines
• Assessing the talent and skills of dancers
• Working with music and sound editors to create a cohesive audio-visual performance
• Providing feedback and corrections to dancers to improve their technique and performance
• Ensuring the safety of dancers during rehearsals and performances
• Maintaining a knowledge of various styles of dance and incorporating them as needed
• Working with costume designers to ensure the dancers’ movements are not hindered

 

Professional Choreographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a creative, passionate, and skilled Professional Choreographer to create dance routines and movements for performances.

The Choreographer responsibilities include creating and teaching routines to dancers, directing rehearsals, and providing feedback to improve performance.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in various dance styles, has a keen eye for detail, and has excellent communication skills.

The role of the Professional Choreographer is to create captivating choreography that aligns with the artistic vision and engages the audience.

 

Responsibilities

• Create and develop dance routines and movements for performances
• Teach choreography to dancers and ensure they execute routines correctly
• Direct rehearsals and provide constructive feedback to dancers
• Collaborate with directors, costume designers, and music composers to align choreography with the overall artistic vision
• Ensure dancer safety during rehearsals and performances
• Stay updated with the latest dance trends and techniques
• Participate in auditions and dancer selection process

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Professional Choreographer
• Extensive knowledge of various dance styles and techniques
• Ability to create innovative and engaging choreography
• Excellent communication and teaching skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with a creative team
• High level of physical fitness and stamina
• Bachelor’s degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or relevant field is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professional Choreographer
• Work Environment: Rehearsal studios, performance venues. The role may require extensive travel for performances or workshops.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Artistic Director or Production Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• 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, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Professional Choreographer Do?

Professional Choreographers work in various settings such as dance companies, film and television production companies, theatres, dance schools, and as independent professionals.

They create new dance routines and reinterpret existing dances for performances.

This involves choosing the music, creating the dance moves and sequences, and teaching them to the dancers.

They work closely with directors, producers, costume designers, and lighting designers to ensure the choreography aligns with the overall vision of the performance.

Choreographers also audition dancers, assessing their dancing abilities to ensure they are suitable for the particular style or routine.

They may also need to adapt the choreography to suit the dancers’ abilities or the requirements of the performance.

In rehearsals, choreographers guide dancers through the routines, providing feedback and making adjustments as necessary.

They are responsible for ensuring the dancers are fully prepared for the performance.

Depending on the project, choreographers may also be involved in staging, blocking, and coordinating the movements of other performers, such as actors in a theatre production.

In addition to their creative work, professional choreographers often need to manage administrative tasks, such as budgeting for a production, scheduling rehearsals, and coordinating with other staff and crew members.

 

Professional Choreographer Qualifications and Skills

Professional Choreographers utilize a blend of creative, technical, and interpersonal skills to design and teach dance routines, including:

• Creativity and imagination to conceive and implement unique and engaging dance routines
• Technical knowledge and understanding of different dance styles, techniques, and the principles of choreography
• Physical fitness and stamina to demonstrate dance routines and to work for extended periods of time
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to articulate dance steps and techniques clearly and to establish a good rapport with dancers
• Leadership skills to direct and motivate a group of dancers to execute choreographed pieces
• Patience and adaptability to work with dancers of varying skill levels and to revise choreography as needed
• Ability to visualize and design sequences based on musical rhythms and melodies
• Problem-solving skills to adjust dance routines to fit the abilities of the dancers, the theme of the performance, and other constraints

 

Professional Choreographer Experience Requirements

Professional Choreographers often start their journey with extensive training in various dance forms.

They usually have several years of dance experience, often beginning in childhood or adolescence.

Many choreographers begin as professional dancers, giving them first-hand experience with performance and a deep understanding of body movements, rhythm, and the art of expression.

They also learn to develop their creativity and storytelling abilities, which are vital for choreography.

Entry-level choreographers often have 1 to 3 years of experience, often acquired by assisting established choreographers, participating in dance workshops, and creating small pieces for local community events or school productions.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have their work showcased in more notable platforms such as regional theatre, commercial dance companies, or music videos.

They may also have experience in teaching dance, which further enhances their understanding of choreography.

Professional choreographers with more than 5 years of experience usually have a substantial portfolio of their work.

They may have experience in choreographing large-scale productions in theatres, films, or television shows.

These seasoned professionals may also have experience leading teams of dancers and choreographers, making them suitable for directorial or leadership roles in the dance industry.

Continual learning and staying updated with the latest trends in dance is also a part of the job for a professional choreographer.

They often take up advanced courses or workshops to refine their skills and style, which contributes to their professional growth and experience.

 

Professional Choreographer Education and Training Requirements

Professional Choreographers usually start their training with a strong foundation in dance, often at a young age.

Many aspiring choreographers pursue a bachelor’s degree in dance, performing arts, or a related field where they study various dance forms, dance history, and choreography.

In addition to formal education, many choreographers gain experience as dancers.

This practical experience provides in-depth knowledge of movement, rhythm, and the physical capabilities of the human body.

It also allows them to understand the demands and physical stresses that performances can place on dancers.

Some choreographers may also pursue a master’s degree in dance or choreography, focusing on specific dance techniques, styles, or historical periods.

Master’s programs often allow students to develop their own choreographic voice and style, and may include opportunities to create and present their own choreographed works.

Regardless of the level of formal education, choreographers should consistently participate in dance classes and workshops to keep their skills sharp and stay updated on the latest dance trends and techniques.

Additionally, choreographers can benefit from knowledge in related areas such as music, theater, and anatomy.

Certifications are not typically required for choreographers, but they may be beneficial for those working in specific settings, like schools or fitness centers.

Moreover, some choreographers may choose to join professional organizations such as the National Dance Education Organization or the American Dance Therapy Association, which offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development courses.

Being a successful choreographer also requires creativity, leadership skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with dancers and other members of a production team.

These skills are often developed and honed through experience and ongoing practice.

 

Professional Choreographer Salary Expectations

A Professional Choreographer earns an average salary of $48,519 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can vary based on factors such as level of experience, reputation, location, and the size and budget of the production they are working on.

 

Professional Choreographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Professional Choreographer need?

Professional Choreographers should be highly creative and have an extensive knowledge of dance movements and techniques.

They should be able to visualize and create original dance routines, and communicate their vision effectively to performers.

They also need good leadership skills to lead rehearsals and direct performances.

Physically, they should have high stamina and flexibility.

 

Do Professional Choreographers need a degree?

While a degree is not always required for choreographers, many have a bachelor’s degree in dance or a related field.

This can provide them with a deep understanding of dance theory, history, and choreography.

However, practical experience in dance and demonstrated choreography skills are often more important.

 

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

Look for a strong background in dance and choreography.

This can include formal education in dance, as well as participation in dance troupes, studios, or productions.

Look for demonstrated choreography experience, such as work on stage productions, music videos, or dance competitions.

Also, look for any awards or recognition they have received in their field.

 

What qualities make a good Professional Choreographer?

A good Professional Choreographer is passionate about dance and driven by creativity.

They have a deep understanding of music and rhythm and can translate this into movement.

They are strong communicators and leaders, able to direct dancers and work with other members of a production team.

They are also hard-working and dedicated, willing to put in long hours to perfect a routine.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Professional Choreographer?

Hiring a Professional Choreographer can be challenging, as it requires finding a candidate with not only the right qualifications and experience, but also a creative vision that aligns with your project or organization.

It can help to have a clear understanding of what you are looking for in terms of style and experience, and to consider candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds and influences.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a professional choreographer.

Guess what?

It’s not just about creating dance steps.

It’s about orchestrating a symphony of movement, one step at a time.

With our comprehensive professional choreographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to pirouette into your next career move.

But why stop there?

Leap further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-tailored listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every dance step contributes to the grand performance.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.