Dancers

Dancers will have good employment opportunities in the coming years. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts 7 percent employment growth, faster than the average for all careers, through 2033 for dancers. Increased demand for performing arts will contribute to more jobs for performers. Social media is also expected to continue generating interest in dance performances. Competition for dancers will be keen, however. The best opportunities may exist in regional ballet companies, opera companies, and dance groups affiliated with colleges and universities. The turnover rate in dancing is rather high so there are always openings for the newcomer. Although generalization is difficult, the average chorus dancer can expect a career of five to 10 years at best. Most ballet dancers stop dancing for an audience before they are 40 years of age.

The dancer who can move from performing to teaching or choreography will find other employment possibilities in colleges, universities, and schools of dance; with civic and community groups; and in the operation of dance studios.