Dancers

Training in dance usually begins when a child is still young; in fact, ballet dancers often begin between ages five and eight years old. Training may occur in elementary school, where children take dance instruction and participate in dance recitals. Some children also attend special training programs after school and during the summer. Dance companies frequently offer summer programs and admit students who are talented and want to attend. Training continues during high school and many ballet dancers are dancing professionally by the time they are 18 years old.

Dancers need physical stamina to perform on stage, a good sense of balance so they can move without stumbling or falling, a dedication to teamwork because most dance routines involve other people, and the persistence to put in many years of practice. Persistence and sensitivity, as they apply to the day-to-day preparation of the dancer, are also important personal characteristics.

The physical demands of daily practice as well as the demands of the dance routine necessitate good health and a strong body. A dancer must also have a feeling for music, a sense of rhythm, and grace and agility. Good feet with normal arches are required. Dancing is strenuous and demanding. Many dancers end their performing careers by their late thirties, although a few dancers are able to continue their careers much further.

The preparation for a professional dancing career is as much a test of your personal characteristics as it is of your talent. You need, first and foremost, to be enthusiastic about dancing, for the basic desire to achieve success is an ingredient that will help you overcome some of the disappointment and setbacks that seem to be hurdles normally encountered.

Dancers who cease to perform sometimes continue to work in the field as choreographers, company managers, or dance teachers.