Create new dance routines. Rehearse performance of routines. May direct and stage presentations.
SOC: 27-2032.00
Common Job Titles
Choreographer
Dance Director
Dance Maker
Opera Choreographer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeCreate original dance routines integrating movement vocabulary, musicality, and spatial design across diverse performance genres and production contexts.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize diverse artistic influences, historical dance forms, and contemporary trends to develop innovative choreographic concepts and movement vocabularies.
Advanced
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery dance movement techniques and choreographic patterns while rehearsing performers to achieve artistic and technical precision.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate artistic vision with performers' individual strengths and ensemble dynamics when developing and building collaborative dance teams.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate dancer performance quality, movement execution, and artistic expression during rehearsals to provide constructive feedback and refine choreography.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate rehearsal schedules, stage blocking, and production timelines in collaboration with production teams, music directors, and technical staff.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for artistic integrity and creative expression when negotiating with producers, directors, and stakeholders about choreographic vision.
Proficient
MindsetBalance creative experimentation with production constraints and performance timelines when managing multiple projects and stakeholder expectations.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply instructional strategies and learning progressions when teaching complex movement sequences to dancers of varying skill levels.
Developing
Hands-onOperate digital video recording equipment and playback systems to document rehearsals and analyze choreographic compositions.
Developing
MindsetEngage with performers to cultivate trust, motivation, and artistic commitment throughout the creative and rehearsal process.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Choreographers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
3,430
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $33,080. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,600. 50th percentile: U.S. $55,600. 75th percentile: U.S. $71,190. 90th percentile: U.S. $94,090. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$33,080
10% of workers earn the following or more
$94,090
Workers on average earn
$62,020
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Fine Arts4.5/5
Education and Training3.3/5
Production and Processing3.3/5
Administration and Management3.3/5
Design3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
