What does a Choreographer do?

A Choreographer puts together and teaches the steps Dancers execute during performances. They ensure each performed dance fits into an overall production, complements the music and communicates a message to the audience.

They may also assist with casting and provide input regarding costumes, makeup, lighting and sets. By successfully performing the duties listed in a Choreographer job description, they can contribute to the overall success of productions.

Choreographer skills and qualifications

Qualifications to consider adding to your job description for Dance Choreographer positions include:

• Extensive knowledge of dance techniques, such as ballet, folk dance, tap, jazz, modern dance, hip-hop and partnering

• An understanding of dance history, stagecraft, movement analysis, choreography composition and dance aesthetics

• Familiarity with kinesiology, basic anatomy and injury prevention

• Verbal communication skills to coordinate with the production team and provide instruction to Dancers

• Observation skills to assess Dancers’ skills

• Creative thinking skills to visualize and develop dance routines

• Leadership skills to motivate, lead and coach Dancers

Choreographer experience requirements

Employers may look for candidates with various ability levels depending on the production and participating Dancers’ experience. Choreographers who work with elite professional Dancers may need a decade of experience or more, while those staging dances for community theaters or children’s dance schools may require considerably less. Reviewing candidates’ portfolios can help you identify whether their experience aligns with your production.

Choreographer education and training requirements

Education and training requirements for Choreographers vary based on the production’s characteristics. Some choreography positions require a background in dance, post-secondary certificate or a bachelor’s degree, while others require no formal education.

When comparing candidates, employers often consider experience, skills and portfolios. You may also wish to prioritize candidates associated with relevant professional organizations, such as Dance USA and the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT).

Job description samples for similar positions

If you find the job description for Dance Choreographer professionals isn’t a good match for your open position, one of these related job titles may be a better solution:

• Actor

• Instructor

• Producer

Choreographer job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Choreographer and a Dance Instructor?

Choreographers and Dance Instructors teach and critique Dancers. A Choreographer focuses on preparing Dancers for specific productions, while a Dance Instructor helps Dancers develop the skills that allow them to perform various roles.

How do I evaluate a Choreographer portfolio?

Before reviewing portfolios, consider developing an evaluation form to compare submissions based on specific criteria, such as creativity, personal branding, quality, cohesiveness, style and storytelling ability. Keep the vision of your production in mind as you develop your evaluation form, and look for portfolios that demonstrate relevant experience and skills.

Who does a Choreographer report to?

In most cases, a Choreographer reports to the Director of a production. However, a Choreographer employed by a dance school may report to the school’s owner or its Artistic Director.

Who reports to a Choreographer?

Dancers often report directly to a Choreographer. However, some professional productions employ Assistant Choreographers who act as Direct Supervisors for Dancers and report to the Choreographer.