Choreographer

Career Guide

A choreographer designs and teaches movement for stage, film, television, concerts, and live events. The role blends creative direction with teaching, rehearsal leadership, and collaboration to bring a performance concept to life.

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Key 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

Create a showreel with three to five short clips that highlight different styles

Build a portfolio page with credits, press links, and rehearsal footage

Offer to assist an established choreographer to learn set workflow

Run a weekly or monthly class to strengthen teaching and leadership

Network with directors, producers, and music artists through local productions

Learn basic production planning to improve rehearsal efficiency

Prepare a standard audition plan with warm up, teaching steps, and callbacks

Set up a simple rate card and contract template for freelance projects