Choreographer
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Create original dance sequences that match music, story, and tone
- Meet with directors and producers to align on creative goals
- Teach choreography to performers and adjust for different skill levels
- Plan and run rehearsals to build timing, spacing, and performance quality
- Block movement for stage layouts and camera needs
- Collaborate with costume, lighting, and stage teams to support movement
- Maintain safety standards and reduce injury risk in rehearsals
- Revise choreography based on feedback, casting, and production constraints
- Document routines using video references and written notes
- Support performers with performance coaching and confidence building
Top Skills for Success
Choreography Creation
Musicality
Movement Direction
Rehearsal Leadership
Teaching
Communication
Creative Collaboration
Feedback Handling
Time Management
Safety Awareness
Stagecraft Knowledge
Camera Blocking
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Dance Captain
Rehearsal Director
Resident Choreographer
Choreography Assistant
Movement Coach
Transition Opportunities
Creative Director
Show Director
Dance Educator
Casting Director
Production Manager
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Contract NegotiationBudgetingProject PlanningCasting Process KnowledgeUnion KnowledgeCamera StagingBrand CollaborationInjury Prevention
Development SuggestionsBuild a repeatable process for auditions, rehearsals, and revisions. Take short courses in budgeting and contract basics. Practice choreography for camera with test shoots. Work with a physical therapist or trainer to strengthen injury prevention habits. Ask for feedback from directors and dancers after each project and track what to improve.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level30,000 to 55,000 per year
Mid Level55,000 to 90,000 per year
Senior Level90,000 to 160,000 plus per year
Growth Trend
Demand is steady and project based. Hiring increases around live events, touring seasons, and content production cycles. Income can vary widely due to freelance work, union rules, and location.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Broadway and regional theatre productionsFilm studiosTelevision networksStreaming production companiesTouring concert promotersDance companiesTheme parksCruise linesTalent agenciesCommercial production houses
Industry Sectors
Performing ArtsFilmTelevisionMusicAdvertisingLive EventsEducationHospitality Entertainment
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a showreel with three to five short clips that highlight different styles2
Build a portfolio page with credits, press links, and rehearsal footage3
Offer to assist an established choreographer to learn set workflow4
Run a weekly or monthly class to strengthen teaching and leadership5
Network with directors, producers, and music artists through local productions6
Learn basic production planning to improve rehearsal efficiency7
Prepare a standard audition plan with warm up, teaching steps, and callbacks8
Set up a simple rate card and contract template for freelance projects