Dance and Choreography Career: Job Profiles, Placements, Salary, Top Recruiters, Abroad
Pallavi Priyadarshini PandaContent Writer
Dance is a type of artistic expression that involves rhythmic movement of the body, which is frequently accompanied by music. Choreography is the art and practise of developing and arranging dance movements. Choreographers are the artists who design and organise the dance performance's sequences of steps, patterns, and gestures.
At the entry level, candidates can work as Junior Dancers or Assistant Choreographers and earn an average salary ranging from INR 4 to INR 5 lakh. However, the positions at the mid-senior level can be Professional Dancers or Choreographers with pay ranging from INR 6 lakh to INR 8 lakh. At the senior level, they can earn a salary ranging from INR 10 to 15 lakh at job profiles like Principal Dancer or Lead Choreographer.
The colleges that offer the highest placement packages to Dance and Choreography students are Rabindra Bharati University, Parul University, Banaras Hindu University, World University of Design, etc. The top recruiters for Dance and Choreography students include the names of National School of Drama (NSD), Gurukul Dance Academy, SNAP (Symbiosis Nitya and Atyant), Kalakshetra Foundation and Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).
- Average Salary Based On Job Position
- Top Careers in Dancing and Choreography
- Specialisation Wise Salary for Dance and Choreography Graduates in India
- Top Recruiters for Dance and Choreography Students
- Top Dance and Choreography College for Placements
- How to Get a Job After Dance and Choreography?
- 6.1 Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Dance and Choreograhy
- 6.2 Dance and Choreography Salary Abroad
- Dance and Choreography Career FAQs
Average Salary Based On Job Position
The average salary for various job positions after Dancing and Choreography depends on a number of variables, including market growth and industry trends. The compensation given to entry-level employees or newcomers ranges between INR 4- 5 LPA.
The table below provides the average salary ranges for several employment positions for Dancing and Choregraphy graduates:
Job Profile | Average CTC (Per Annum) |
---|---|
Professional Dancer | INR 2 LPA-INR 4 LPA |
Dance Instructor or Teacher | INR 2.5 LPA-INR 5 LPA |
Choreographer | INR 6 LPA-INR 12 LPA |
Dance Studio Manager | INR 4 LPA-INR 8 LPA |
Dance Therapist | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA |
Dance Fitness Instructor | INR 2.5 LPA-INR 4 LPA |
Event Choreographer | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA |
Dance Company Manager | INR 5 LPA-INR 10 LPA |
Dance Journalist or Critic | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from external links.
Top Careers in Dancing and Choreography
The profession of dancing and choreography offers numerous fascinating and fulfilling job opportunities. Individuals who are passionate about dance and choreography might pursue a variety of occupations in this field. Here are some of the most well-known professions in dancing and choreography:
Job Profile | Description | Average CTC (Per Annum) |
---|---|---|
Professional Dancer | Performing dance routines in various settings | INR 2 LPA - INR 4 LPA |
Dance Instructor | Teaching dance techniques to students | INR 2.5 LPA - INR 6 LPA |
Choreographer | Creating dance routines for performances and productions | INR 6 LPA-INR 12 LPA |
Dance Studio Manager | Overseeing operations, managing staff, and scheduling | INR 4 LPA-INR 8 LPA |
Dance Therapist | Using dance for physical, emotional, or psychological therapy | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA |
Dance Fitness Instructor | Conducting dance-based fitness classes | INR 2.5 LPA-INR 6 LPA |
Event Choreographer | Creating dance sequences for events and special occasions | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA |
Dance Company Manager | Handling administrative aspects of a dance company | INR 5 LPA-INR 10 LPA |
Specialisation Wise Salary for Dance and Choreography Graduates in India
The salary offered to Dance and Choreography graduates also varies as per the specialisation chosen during graduation. The salaries shared below reflect not only the specialisation, but also other factors such as company size, experience, industry, and location.
Job Profile | Entry Level | Mid Level | Senior Level |
---|---|---|---|
Professional Dancer | INR 2 LPA-4 LPA | INR 5 LPA-INR 10 LPA | INR 15,00,000 - 50,00,000+ |
Dance Instructor or Teacher | INR 2.5 LPA -5 LPA | INR 6,00,000 - 12,00,000 | Varies |
Choreographer | INR 6 LPA -12 LPA | INR 15,00,000 - 30,00,000 | INR 40,00,000 - 1,00,00,000+ |
Dance Studio Manager | INR 4 LPA-8 LPA | INR 8,00,000 - 15,00,000 | INR 15,00,000 - 25,00,000+ |
Dance Fitness Instructor | INR 2.5 LPA-INR 5 LPA | INR 5,00,000 - 8,00,000 | INR 8,00,000 - 15,00,000+ |
Event Choreographer | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA | INR 6,00,000 - 12,00,000 | INR 12,00,000 - 20,00,000+ |
Dance Company Manager | INR 5 LPA-INR 10 LPA | INR 10,00,000 - 20,00,000 | INR 20,00,000 - 40,00,000+ |
Dance Journalist or Critic | INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA | INR 6,00,000 - 12,00,000 | Varies based on media outlet and experience |
Dance Researcher or Historian | INR 4 LPA-INR 8 LPA | INR 8,00,000 - 15,00,000 | INR 15,00,000 - 25,00,000+ |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from external links.
Top Recruiters for Dance and Choreography Students
Dance companies, entertainment organisations, educational institutions, and event management firms are among the recruiters in the dance and choreography profession. Here are some of the best dance and choreography recruiters:
Top Employment Areas for Dancers and Choregraphers | |
---|---|
Shiamak Davar Dance Company | Terence Lewis Contemporary Dance Company |
Nrityagram Dance Ensemble | Mudra Dance Company |
Danceworx | |
You Tube | Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) |
Dance and choreography students should actively network, attend industry events, and investigate options in both the traditional dance sector and emergent fields such as digital media and online content development. Building a great portfolio and keeping a professional web presence helps increase visibility and attract potential recruiters' attention. The various recruiters based on specialisation pursued in Dace and Choregraphy includes the following:
Entertainment Industry | |
---|---|
Balaji Telefilms | NDTV |
Zee TV | Sony TV |
Dance Academies Recruiters | |
Mudra Dance Company | Terence Lewis Contemporary Dance Company |
Srishti – Nina Rajarani Dance Creations | ------ |
Dance Studios Recruiters | |
Danceworx | The Dance Bible |
Shiamak Davar Institute of Performing Arts (SDIPA) | Nrityagram Dance Education Center |
Educational Institute Recruiters | |
National School of Drama (NSD) | Gurukul Dance Academy |
Kalakshetra Foundation | Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) |
Top Dance and Choreography College for Placements
A number of Dance and Choreography colleges are popular for their placement opportunities and the high range of domestic and international packages offered to the candidates. These colleges not only provide placement opportunities but also ensure good placements for the students.
Some of the top colleges and their placement report for 2023 are given in the table below:
Name of Institute | Average Annual Salary in 2023 |
---|---|
INR 5.87 LPA | |
INR 5.5 LPA | |
INR 6.03 LPA | |
INR 5.2 LPA | |
INR 3.6 LPA | |
INR 3 LPA | |
INR 5.7 LPA | |
INR 8.7 LPA | |
INR 9.4 LPA | |
INR 5 LPA |
How to Get a Job After Dance and Choreography?
To secure a job after pursuing dance and choreography, it's crucial to build a strong portfolio showcasing your performances and choreography work. Network actively within the industry by attending events, joining dance communities, and establishing a visible online presence. Seek internships or assistant roles, explore freelance opportunities, and apply to dance companies, studios, and entertainment organizations.
Stay updated on industry trends, continuously evolve your skills, and consider seeking guidance from experienced professionals. Prepare for auditions and interviews, tailor your resume for specific applications, and remain persistent and dedicated in your pursuit, leveraging every opportunity to showcase your talent and passion for dance.
Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Dance and Choreograhy
Most top-tier cities offer vibrant job markets for Dance and Choreography graduates. As jobs in India include a wide range of industries and provide extensive learning opportunities, students can find employment and career progression in cities mentioned in the table below:
City | Job Opportunities | Average CTC (Per Annum) |
---|---|---|
Mumbai | Bollywood choreography, dance studios, events, film industry | INR 6 LPA-INR 15 LPA |
Delhi | Cultural events, weddings, dance schools, entertainment industry | INR 4 LPA-INR 10 LPA |
Chennai | Classical dance performances, film industry, cultural festivals | INR 3 LPA-INR 8 LPA |
Bangalore | Dance schools, cultural events, contemporary dance opportunities | INR 4 LPA-INR 12 LPA |
Hyderabad | Traditional and modern dance opportunities, events, fitness | INR 3.5 LPA-INR 9 LPA |
Kolkata | Classical and folk dance performances, dance festivals | INR 3 LPA-INR 8 LPA |
Pune | Dance schools, events, cultural programs, urban dance scene | INR 3.5 LPA-INR 9 LPA |
Chandigarh | Events, weddings, local festivals, growing cultural scene | INR 3 LPA-INR 10 LPA |
Jaipur | Traditional dance opportunities, cultural events, weddings | INR 3 LPA-INR 7 LPA |
Ahmedabad | Cultural events, weddings, diverse dance opportunities | INR 3 LPA-INR 7 LPA |
Dance and Choreography Salary Abroad
Dance and Choreography graduates can seek exciting job opportunities in popular job destinations such as UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand. etc. The salary depends on various factors such as cost of living, location of the country, specialisation, years of experience, industry, etc. The salary ranges of the following countries are given in the table below:
Country | Salary Offered |
---|---|
USA |
|
United Kingdom |
|
Canada |
|
Germany |
|
Australia |
|
Disclaimer: The above salary data has been obtained from external sites.
Dance and Choreography Career FAQs
Q. Is Dancing a good career?
A. Yes, dancing may be a lucrative job for those who have a genuine passion and talent for the art form. It provides a wide range of opportunities, such as professional performance, choreography, education, and entrepreneurship. Aside from the physical and creative advantages, a career in dance provides for self-expression, cultural contribution, and the opportunity to influence audiences. Dancers can earn an average salary ranging between INR 5 LPA to 20 LPA.
Individuals should, however, be prepared for the obstacles that come with job insecurity and competitiveness, as success in the dynamic world of dance requires perseverance, continuous learning, and adaptation.
Q. How long can a dancer's career realistically last?
A. The length of a dancer's career can vary greatly depending on a variety of criteria such as the dancer's genre, physical condition, and professional decisions. A professional dancer's career can span anywhere from 10 to 20 years, with some going even longer. Because of the emphasis on technique and talent, classical and contemporary dancers may have longer careers.
However, due to the physical demands of the profession, probable injuries, and the competitive nature of the area, active careers can be quite brief. Many dancers migrate into choreography, teaching, or other related positions to stay involved in the dance community after their performance careers expire. Individual choices, health, and continued professional development all play important roles in determining how long a dancer's career will last.
Q. Do background dancers have a promising career?
A. Background dancers' job possibilities can vary depending on their particular goals, opportunities, and the ever-changing nature of the entertainment industry. While background dancers do not usually achieve the same amount of attention as main performers, they serve an important part in improving the visual attractiveness of performances in a variety of venues, such as films, music videos, stage shows, and events.
For some background dancers, the role is a stepping stone to more prominent positions in the industry, such as becoming a choreographer, dance instructor, or even moving up to lead roles. Building a strong network, obtaining attention, and constantly refining one's talents are often required for success as a background dancer. Furthermore, the need for dance skill in the entertainment sector can provide constant opportunities for background work.
Q. What is the career path of a Choreographer?
A. A Choreographer's professional path is flexible and can change depending on personal preferences, opportunities, and the ever-changing nature of the dance and entertainment industries. Continuous learning, networking, and keeping up with industry developments are all necessary for a successful and long-lasting career as a choreographer.
A choreographer's career path often includes numerous stages of training, experience, and professional development. Many choreographers receive vital expertise by dancing in various productions such as stage performances, music videos, films, and other ventures. This hands-on experience teaches students about the dynamics of dance and performance.
Q. Do choreographers make good money?
A. Choreographers' earnings might vary greatly depending on criteria such as their amount of expertise, reputation, project size, and industry. While some choreographers can earn a good living, it's crucial to remember that the industry is competitive, and success often necessitates a combination of talent, networking, and perseverance.
In India, the average income for a Choreographer is 2.5 lakh per year. Salary will be established based on performance, experience, fame, and field of work. A dance teacher makes between 2.5 and 3 lakh rupees per year on average. A well-established and experienced Choreographer's wage is not a constraint. Talented dancers will be richly rewarded with money and fame in the Choreographer sector.
Q. Do dancers get paid for rehearsals?
A. Dancers are often payed for both rehearsals and performances in many professional dance productions. The payment structure may differ, with some projects charging a flat charge for the entire project, including rehearsals, while others may pay for rehearsal and performance hours separately.
Dancers employed by established dance groups are frequently paid on a regular basis or on a per diem basis, which covers both rehearsals and performances. These businesses may have formal contracts defining payment arrangements.
Q. How to become a Dancer?
A. A basic educational qualification, such as 10+2, is sufficient to enrol in a dance school and pursue a bachelor's degree in dance. A bachelor's degree in dance is required to pursue a master's degree. Aside from that, only a few dance colleges hold entrance tests for entry to extremely competitive dance programmes.
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Academy Of Music, Dance, Drama and Fine Arts Entrance Exam
-
Banaras Hindu University Entrance Exam
-
Nalanda Dance Research Centre Entrance Exam
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Shivaji University- Faculty of Arts & Faculty of Social Sciences Entrance Exam
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Osmania University Dance Entrance Exam
-
Gujarat University Entrance Exam
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The Maharaja Sayajirao University Entrance Exam
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Film and Television Institute of India – FTII JET
For becoming a dance teacher in Government dance schools, UGC-NET Exam for Dance and Drama/Theatre, SET, SLET exams in Performing Arts is conducted by central and state governments for the benefit of bachelors and masters degree holders in dance.
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered 2 days ago
Here are some preparation tips for a dance audition that can help you admission into a Dance College:
- Research: Understand the institution's requirements and the dance style which they focus on
- Practice: Rehearse a routine that highlights your strengths and versatility
- Music Selection: Choose a music t
P
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
While rewarding, A career in Dance and Choreography has its own challenges. Following are some of the challenges that you may face while pursuing a career in Dance and Choreography:
- Physical Demands: Long hours of practice can lead to fatigue and injuries.
- Financial Stability: Initial stages may invol
S
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, the dance industry in India is thriving due to increasing opportunities in:
- Bollywood and regional film industries
- Reality TV shows like "Dance India Dance" and "India's Got Talent"
- Corporate events and international tours
- Cultural festivals promoting traditional dance forms
- Digital platforms like Y
K
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, Dance Choreographers get paid for dance opportunities in India. The amount of salary one earns as a Choreographer completely depends on one's experience, skills, and reputation. It also depends on your workplace, for example, Choreographers working in the entertainment industry or films get pai
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Absolutely, one can easily learn dance steps through YouTube videos. But to be a great dancer, one needs to dance and going to a dance studio or institute is the best choice. Trained dance professionals make your process easier by telling you everything from basic steps to learning different dance s
H
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, it's going to push you out of your comfort zone. While dancing or practicing a particular dance form for a long time, we completely forget to learn some new movements or do improvisations to it. But when we teach those steps and dance movements to other people our clarity and learning for the s
M
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Diploma Dance Courses provide one with advanced level knowledge of Dance. It is an extension of one's knowledge after graduation or postgraduation in performing arts. The duration of such courses usually ranges from 6 months to 3 years. These courses can be pursued online, offline, or in distance mo
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
For ages, Dance has been seen as an expression of self. The relevance of Dance is too much, especially in a country like India where Dance is concerned with the deep-rooted culture and traditions. Based on origination, all the dance forms have been classified into three types- classical, contemporar
P
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
There is a promising and long-term career in classical dance, particularly in Kathak. Learning a classical art form is truly a blessing. It is not just about mastering the techniques and eventually opening a dance studio; it's about fully immersing yourself in the art and embracing the joy and welln
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
- Abhinaya: Performing on a given theme
- Peacock dance: Performing a peacock dance in the Kathak style
- Chals: Performing different chaos in the Kathak style
- Gat Bhav and Gat Nikas: Performing Gat Bhav and Gat Nikas
- Tatkar: Per
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
Here are some institutes in India that offer dance courses:
Rabindra Bharati University: A popular college in Kolkata that offers dance and choreography courses
Banaras Hindu University: A well-known college in Varanasi that offers dance and choreography courses
Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University: A
S
Contributor-Level 8
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