Choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. Typically they are seasoned dancers who design performances that convey moods and ideas using movement or a particular style of dance in staged performances. Choreographers create and direct original dances, in addition to developing interpretations of existing dances. The work of choreographers can be seen in a variety of performance settings, including ballet, Classical, opera, musicals, movies, television, music videos and commercials. Choreographers teach more than just dance steps, they also help actors and singers develop their characters, selecting rhythm and pacing to enhance their performances. Most celebrities have a choreographer to create their signature visual image. This makes them a huge influence on every aspect of the mainstream spotlight. Through their dance experience, choreographers acquire knowledge of dance theory. Choreographers need to have a very keen sense of who they are as an artist, and also what their target audience needs to see. A lot of time is spent inventing new dance moves and editing routines. They also work very closely with the dancers, teaching them by example and by spoken instruction. Choreographer direct and encourage the dancers, direct practice, invent and arrange the choreography, and check necessary changes to make. A great deal of time is spent inventing, editing, and practicing routines in order to ensure that they meet the appropriate level of professionalism and provide entertainment for audiences and judges.

Work Environment

• Schedules for Dancers and Choreographers vary, depending on where they work. During tours, dancers and choreographers spend most of the day in rehearsals and have performances at night, giving them long workdays. Some work part time at casinos, on cruise ships, and at theme parks. Although choreographers who work in dance schools may have a standard workweek when they are instructing students, they spend hours on their own creating new dance routine. This is an industry that demands a high level of fitness. Work can be intermittent. Some dancers may have permanent work with a company, but many work with small companies and have to regularly audition for a role in a production. Some choreographers work as dance teachers. Teaching dance in college, high school, or elementary school requires a college degree. Sometimes they need to travel to foreign countries for performances.