PROFESSIONAL BALLET DANCER

I found this in the book The World Of Ballet by Judy Tatchell

Most ballet school students aim to gain positions performing for a professional company. However, there are not always easy to obtain, as vancancies only occur when current dancers leave.

When appointing new dancers, directors look for excellent technique, physique and stage presence. Once a contract has been won, wages and working conditions are generally good. Classes, shoes, tights and, of course, costumes are provided. Dancers' hours are regulated, but the day can be long and tiring. Those who are attached to a touring company have to get used to long periods away from home.

Promotion can come quickly-talented youngsters are often given solo opportunities within their first couple of years. However, for those who remain in the corp de ballet, the job can become repetitive. Experienced performers may move to smaller or experimental companies, where there may be more chance to dance a variety of roles.

Most performing careers, though, are short. Dancers rarely continue beyond their mid-thirites. Missing a year or two through injury is also common. Any extra qualifications and experience that you have will be very useful for starting a new career once your performing years are over.



Professional Ballet Dancer

CAREER

BALLET PASSION