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A choreographer creates original dances and dance programmes, offering
suggestions as to how the dancer should interpret and perform them.
Choreographers design and direct the dance or stylized movement in musical
productions, working closely with the director and
musical director.
A choreographer works with dancers to interpret and develop ideas and
transform them into the finished performance. This might mean taking overall
control of a production, or working under the director
of an opera, play or
musical.
When working with a director, the choreographer must gain a full
understanding of the director's vision of the show, including style and
pacing, and must be familiar with the script and music. An effective
choreographer is one who supports the director's vision, so that all
elements of movement and dance work as part of the larger picture. Some
directors will give their choreographers a great deal of freedom for their
work, but even so, the result must be part of an organic whole, supporting
the story, characters, and the overall artistic intent.
As part of the production's support team, the choreographer must work
closely with the musical director,
costume designer,
set designer and
lighting designer, to make sure that all stage movement is compatible with
musical cues, costuming , sets and lighting.
Choreographers in community theatre must often work with non-dancers, or
dancers with limited experience, as well as those who have had considerable
training. This can mean extra rehearsal time, which must be planned for.
Many choreographers use team captains or assistants to work with individuals
or groups within the ensemble, as a way of maximizing the amount of time
available for rehearsal.
Almost all choreographers begin their careers as dancers and usually start
choreographing while still performing, especially in smaller companies.
Choreographers frequently absorb artistic influences from other art forms,
such as theatre, the visual arts and architecture.
As a choreographer, you would create dance routines and movement
sequences for dancers and other performers. You could choreograph stage, TV
or film performances, music videos, and even fashion shows or corporate
events. You may also act as a movement coach for actors.
You would normally specialise in a particular style of dance, for example:
ANZSCO ID: 211112
Knowledge, skills and attributes
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a high level of dancing ability
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a thorough knowledge of dance and movement
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good teaching and communication skills
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creativity and imagination
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patience, stamina and concentration
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an understanding of dancers' needs
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an understanding of health and safety issues
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the ability to work well with others.
Duties and Tasks
You mighty create your own dance pieces, or interpret a director’s
instructions. Your work could involve:
-
developing ideas and turning them into a finished
performance
-
planning movements to fit the music
-
meeting producers, costume designers, and musical and
artistic directors
-
choosing music
-
auditioning dancers
-
teaching and rehearsing the dancers
-
recording the steps using a notation system, such as
Labanotation or Benesh.
Working conditions
If you are freelance, you would also spend time marketing yourself, finding
new work and dealing with your own tax and accounts. Running your own dance
company would involve auditioning dancers, hiring staff and doing
administrative tasks, such as applying for funding.
Your working hours could vary greatly. Generally, you would work long
daytime hours whilst teaching and rehearsing the dancers and you may also
attend evening performances. You may often work on more than one production
at a time.
You would mainly work in dance studios and rehearsal rooms, but also in
theatres, film and TV studios, nightclubs, halls and holiday centres. There
may be a lot of travel, possibly including overseas.
Education and training/entrance requirements
As a new choreographer, you would develop your skills by shadowing or
assisting an experienced choreographer.
You could choose to take a postgraduate course in choreography at a
professional dance school or university. These courses are aimed at dance
graduates or experienced dancers who wish to further their careers.
Did You Know?
The
Helpmann awards,
named after Sir Robert Helpmann [ballet dancer, actor, producer,
director and choreographer] recognising artistic achievement and
excellence in the performing arts in Australia, were established by
the Live Performance Australia in 2001.
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