How to Become a Professional Dancer – Pro Tips & Tricks!

The Journey of a Dancer

Becoming a professional dancer is a journey of passion, persistence, and dedication. It’s a field that requires not only raw talent but a deep understanding of the discipline and the art form. Whether your goal is to perform in a ballet company, on Broadway, in commercial dance productions, or as an independent artist, the path to becoming a professional dancer is similar in many ways, requiring years of training, mental toughness, and a lot of hard work.

This comprehensive guide will help aspiring dancers understand the journey, offering you pro tips, tricks, and insights that can guide you toward becoming a professional dancer. From mastering technique to handling auditions and overcoming challenges, we will cover every essential aspect of this highly competitive and rewarding field.

1. Understanding What It Means to Be a Professional Dancer

Before diving into training, it’s essential to understand the career paths and opportunities that are available to professional dancers. A “professional dancer” can take many forms, depending on the type of dancing you wish to pursue.

Ballet Dancer

Ballet is one of the most technically demanding forms of dance, and professional ballet dancers are highly trained athletes. Most ballet dancers start their training from a young age, often as early as four or five years old. The ballet world is competitive, and many dancers spend years in specialized ballet schools to hone their craft. Ballet dancers typically perform with professional companies and must master a variety of techniques such as pirouettes, arabesques, and grand jets.

Commercial Dancer

Commercial dancers perform in the entertainment industry, including music videos, commercials, television shows, and concerts. This style of dancing requires versatility, as dancers must adapt to many different styles, including hip hop, jazz, and contemporary. Unlike classical ballet, commercial dancers often need to learn choreography quickly and be able to perform with an upbeat, engaging energy.

Contemporary Dancer

Contemporary dance is a fusion of various dance styles, including jazz, ballet, and modern dance. It focuses on self-expression and allows for more fluidity in movements, making it appealing to those who enjoy creating unique, emotional performances. Contemporary dancers may work with companies, in theater productions, or even as freelancers.

Hip Hop and Street Dance

Hip hop and street dancers perform on stage or in competitive events. Dancers in this genre must have an innate sense of rhythm and style and may often incorporate freestyle, improvisational movements into performances. Hip hop dancers may also appear in music videos or as part of a dance crew. Mastery of breaking, locking, popping, and other street dance styles is essential.

Dance Instructor/Choreographer

Many dancers choose to transition into teaching or choreography as their careers progress. Dance instructors work with students to improve their technique and inspire creativity, while choreographers are responsible for designing dance routines for performances, competitions, or other productions. The transition into teaching or choreography allows dancers to use their expertise and knowledge of the art form to shape future generations of dancers.

2. The Importance of Early Training and Consistency

Becoming a professional dancer is a long-term commitment, and it all begins with strong foundational training. While it’s possible to start dancing later in life, beginning as a child or teenager allows for a stronger foundation in technique and discipline. Here’s what you need to know:

2.1 Starting Early

While many people begin dancing as young children, it’s never too late to start. The earlier you start, the more time you have to develop your skills and perfect your technique. Professional dancers often begin training in their childhood, spending several hours a day at dance schools or training programs. Young dancers are able to build flexibility, strength, and muscle memory more easily when they start early.

2.2 Consistency is Key

Professional dancers need to train consistently over a period of years to develop their bodies and minds to meet the physical and technical demands of the art form. This means dedicating hours every day to practicing, learning new choreography, refining technique, and working with instructors. Consistency helps dancers build endurance, strength, and muscle memory while also developing their artistry.

2.3 Types of Classes and Styles

Dancers must be versatile and well-rounded to succeed in the competitive dance world. Taking classes in a variety of styles helps expand your skill set. Ballet, jazz, modern dance, contemporary, hip hop, and tap are just a few of the dance styles that professional dancers often study. In addition to technique classes, dancers also benefit from studying music, rhythm, and performance skills to become more well-rounded artists.

3. Building Physical Strength and Flexibility

A professional dancer’s body must be finely tuned to perform at its highest level. This involves strength, flexibility, and endurance. Developing these physical aspects requires consistent training and careful attention to your body.

3.1 Flexibility Training

Flexibility is crucial for most dance forms, especially ballet and contemporary dance. To improve flexibility, dancers need to dedicate time each day to stretching and performing exercises that increase range of motion in the muscles and joints. Incorporating techniques like yoga or Pilates can also help improve overall flexibility and prevent injury.

Pro Tip:

If you’re working on flexibility, avoid overstretching or forcing your body into positions it isn’t ready for. Flexibility should be developed gradually to prevent strain on the muscles and ligaments.

3.2 Strength and Conditioning

A strong dancer is less prone to injury and able to perform more complex movements with greater control. Strength training is essential for building a solid foundation of power in your legs, core, and upper body. Many dancers integrate weight training or bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups into their training routine. Strong core muscles are particularly important, as they provide stability and control in various dance movements.

Pro Tip:

Cross-training activities, such as swimming or cycling, can also help build cardiovascular endurance, which is important for maintaining stamina during long rehearsals and performances.

3.3 Endurance Training

Dancers need to have excellent cardiovascular endurance. Dance routines often require high-intensity movements over a long period, so being able to sustain energy is important. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) or aerobic workouts like running can help boost endurance levels, ensuring you can dance at your best for longer periods.

4. The Mental Game: Building Focus and Resilience

Becoming a professional dancer isn’t just about physical skill—it’s also about mental fortitude. Developing the right mindset and learning to handle the mental challenges of a dance career are just as important as the physical aspects.

4.1 Staying Focused During Rehearsals

Dance rehearsals require immense focus and attention to detail. A dancer needs to stay sharp, absorbing choreography quickly and adapting to feedback from directors or choreographers. During rehearsals, distractions should be minimized to stay in the moment and ensure full participation in the learning process.

4.2 Building Confidence and Overcoming Fear

Performing in front of an audience can be daunting, and many dancers experience stage fright or fear of failure. Building confidence comes from regular practice, positive affirmations, and visualization techniques. Visualizing a successful performance helps many dancers feel more comfortable when they step onto the stage.

Pro Tip:

To overcome stage fright, try focusing on the joy of dancing rather than worrying about how others perceive you. The more you can embrace the performance, the more natural it will feel.

4.3 Handling Rejection and Setbacks

Rejection is an inevitable part of any dancer’s journey. Auditions don’t always go as planned, and not every opportunity will work out. Learning to handle rejection is vital for long-term success. Resilience, perseverance, and a positive mindset are key when dealing with setbacks. Remember that failure is part of the process, and each experience helps you grow.

5. Building a Dance Career: Auditions and Networking

As you progress in your training, you’ll begin auditioning for roles in companies, performances, or commercial gigs. Auditioning is an essential part of building your professional dance career.

5.1 Preparing for Auditions

Auditions are your chance to showcase your talent to industry professionals. Preparation is key, and it begins with understanding the specific requirements for each audition. This includes knowing the dance style, attire, and choreography. Practice the audition material thoroughly before the day to ensure you’re well-prepared.

Pro Tip:

Research the company or production you’re auditioning for. Understand their style, values, and past performances to align your audition with their needs.

5.2 Professional Networking

Networking is crucial for dancers who want to break into the professional world. Attend workshops, join dance communities, and stay active on social media to connect with other dancers, choreographers, and industry professionals. Networking allows you to learn about upcoming auditions, job opportunities, and collaborations.

6. Balancing the Business of Dance

Being a professional dancer is not just about dancing it’s also about managing your career. As a freelancer or part of a company, you must understand the business aspects of your profession.

6.1 Personal Branding

In today’s digital age, personal branding is essential. Create a professional online presence through social media platforms, where you can share your work, performances, and auditions. A personal website or portfolio is also a great way to showcase your skills and connect with potential employers or collaborators.

6.2 Financial Management

As a freelance dancer, managing your finances effectively is important. Many dancers work as independent contractors, which means managing taxes, insurance, and setting aside money for savings. Keep track of your income and expenses, and be mindful of budgeting for travel, costumes, and other dance-related expenses.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

Becoming a professional dancer is a challenging but fulfilling journey. Through hard work, dedication, and a growth mindset, you can turn your passion for dance into a rewarding career. Remember that every dancer’s journey is unique, and success doesn’t come overnight. Keep pushing yourself, learning, and adapting to the ever-changing world of dance.

Stay committed to your craft, continue improving, and embrace the opportunities that come your way. With persistence, resilience, and the right mindset, you can achieve your dream of becoming a professional dancer.