| Quick Facts: Dancers and Choreographers | |
|---|---|
| 2012 Median Pay | $15.87 per hour |
| Entry-Level Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | See How to Become One |
| On-the-job Training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Number of Jobs, 2012 | 25,800 |
| Job Outlook, 2012-22 | 13% (As fast as average) |
| Employment Change, 2012-22 | 3,400 |
What Dancers and Choreographers Do
Dancers and choreographers express ideas and stories, using dance. There are many types of dance such as ballet, tango, modern dance, tap, and jazz.
Work Environment
About 30 percent of dancers work in performing arts companies, and about 57 percent of choreographers work in private instruction.
How to Become a Dancer or Choreographer
Education and training requirements vary with the type of dancer; however, all dancers need many years of formal training. Nearly all choreographers began their careers as dancers.
Pay
The median hourly wage for dancers was $14.16 in May 2012. The median hourly wage for choreographers was $18.33 in May 2012.
Job Outlook
Employment of dancers and choreographers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations. A growing interest in dance in pop culture may provide opportunities in fields outside of dance companies, such as TV or movies, casinos, or theme parks.
