How to become A Backup Dancer

• Background Dancer
• Professional Dancer
• Backup Dancer
• Ballet Dancer
• Ballerina
• Tap Dancer
• Jazz Dancer
• Hip-Hop Dancer
• Ballroom Dancer
• Dancer

What do Backup Dancers do?

A Backup Dancer would typically need to:

• Dance with impeccable technique behind or with the main performing artist(s) at live shows and events or in recorded music video productions, lending visual symmetry, rhythm, appeal and variety to the act
• Continuously improve their performance skills and expand their portfolio to include emerging or more complex dance styles and moves for audience entertainment
• Prepare for and attend auditions and casting sessions to land a part in a show or a full-time role in a dance or theatre company
• Rehearse and exercise several hours each day to prepare for a performance
• Collaborate with instructors, choreographers and other dancers to discuss and interpret routines, suggesting modifications where needed
• Learn and apply other skills such as singing and acting that may be useful in musical theatre productions
• Look after the health & safety of the team, which requires a grasp of physiology and anatomy, as well as the safe use of costumes, premises, props and equipment
• Attend promotional events such as photoshoots for the current production
• Promote oneself by sending out one’s CV, photographs and footage, giving presentations and running workshops, attending auditions and meetings

The work environment of a Backup Dancer depends on the production with which they are engaged. It could be a theatre, a recording studio, a concert hall, or an outdoor stage. They could also perform in other locations, such as theme parks and cruise ships.

Touring to perform at one or more venues in your country of residence or even overseas is likely, leading to extended periods of absence from home.

A Backup Dancer’s work hours are usually long and unsocial. They typically rehearse during the day and perform at night, particularly for live shows and concerts during tours. Certain shows may run for several days at a stretch. If you are part of a music video production, you would follow recording studio hours.

Choreographers working in dance schools may have a conventional workweek, although they must also spend long hours on their own to create dance routines for their students.

Backup Dancers typically freelance, finding gigs or short fixed-term contractual work. Some dance companies may offer full-time jobs. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Backup Dancers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals and contacting dance or theatre companies or other relevant employers directly. They may also use job search platforms, go to job fairs, leverage social media using an online portfolio that showcases their dance videos, inquire at local listings or check online sources for any casting call notices. 

Backup Dancers are generally employed by: 

• Performing Dance Companies
• Musical Theatre Companies
• Community Dance Organisations
• Private Dance Schools
• Clubs & Cabarets  
• Cruise Ships
• Educational Institutions

Professional associations and organisations, such as the  International Dance Organisation (IDO), are crucial for Backup Dancers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• On-the-job injuries due to the intense physical demands of dance; high risk of overexertion due to long workdays and inadequate rest 
• The need to perfect the four main styles of dance - ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and modern
• A fast-paced and highly competitive field
• The need to engage in constant professional development, specialising in styles such as tap or mime, learn evolving techniques, or master complex moves
• Develop a related skill, such as acting or singing, to stand out in the crowd
• Spending much of your free time on dance classes and fitness routines
• The need to take directions well, be quick at grasping dance steps and routines, and be able to memorise the choreography
• The need to stay physically flexible while also curious to learn and determined to succeed; have a remarkable sense of rhythm and synchronisation
• The need to demonstrate flawless technique while remaining receptive to constructive feedback and making constant improvements and adjustments 
• The need for excellent attitude and interpersonal skills, since colleagues must collaborate for long periods during rehearsals, tours and filming sessions
• Finding a reliable and efficient agent or agency and building an extensive network of contacts through which you can source gigs
• The need for an alternative source of income since injuries are common and work may be in the form of one-time gigs 
• Retirement in their thirties resulting in idleness in later life 
  

Backup Dancers typically freelance and perform in gigs. However, there exists a vast range in the experience they possess. Some may have been formally trained from when they were little children. Others may have begun dancing informally through clubs and societies while in high school or university. Each specific gig would have its particular requirements.

An academic program, such as a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, typically requires a period of supervised experience through internships. You will gain optimal benefit from your tasks outside of the classroom when they line up perfectly with your lessons inside it. You may get to hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they manage to turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

A local dance company or a dance school or holiday programmes elsewhere can play an important role in shaping your career as a Backup Dancer by building valuable experience. You can join a local troupe on a voluntary or paid basis to perform in gigs at weddings, festivals, or other events.

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow expert dancers and choreographers to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. You may even consider setting up your own company.

Although a formal degree is not mandatory, some aspiring Backup Dancers acquire postsecondary education, particularly those who aim to become choreographers or dance instructors. Formal education helps to solidify your dance techniques and build a versatile portfolio of performances.

Certain colleges and universities offer either or both a bachelor's and master's degree in dance through the department of theatre or fine arts. Degree programs typically include coursework in diverse dance styles, such as modern dance, ethnic dance, jazz, ballet, and hip-hop, as well as choreography, performance, and the history of dance. 

A Backup Dancer's training begins at a young age, particularly for those specialising in ballet. It becomes more formal and focused as they become teens and enter high school, and continues throughout their careers. Major professional dance companies conduct intensive summer training programs and accord admissions to candidates in their regular full-time training programs. Most freshers in college dance programs have also had previous formal training to enhance their dance techniques and performance versatility. 

Although not mandatory, certification demonstrates a Backup Dancer’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. When acquired from an objective and reputed organisation, it can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent, increase your chances of advancement, and allow you to become an independent consultant. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression, although the path for a Backup Dancer may not be well-defined.

You would typically begin your career as a performing dancer or work in a related but non-performance area by adding another aspect of dance to your repertoire of skills. 

One pathway for Backup Dancers is to move into choreography as Assistant Choreographers before becoming full-fledged Choreographers. Dance or choreography could lead you to become Producers and Directors for theatre, film or television.

Promotion to Dance Captain in musical theatre companies would make you responsible to lead rehearsals or coach the dance team in the choreographer’s absence. If audiences and companies spot your talent and appreciate it, you could even become an independent and popular performer who uses other Backup Dancers in their own shows.

Another avenue is to become a Dance Teacher in the private or the public sector. You could choose to run your own dance courses or operate a franchise within a health and fitness club. You could even train to become Movement Coaches, Physical Therapists, or Dance Therapists. Some Backup Dancers find more significant roles in the entertainment industry as actors or media personalities.

Other roles you could branch out into include Dance Notator. Writing about dance or handling the administrative side of a dance organisation are also possible career progression paths.

Aspiring Backup Dancers who begin to train at a young age acquire skills and experience in diverse dances and related aspects and build a robust portfolio showcasing the same have the best job prospects. Those who continually learn new dance moves and keep attending auditions improve their marketability.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Backup Dancer build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

Although a formal degree is not mandatory, some aspiring Backup Dancers acquire postsecondary education, particularly those who aim to eventually become choreographers or dance instructors. Formal education helps to solidify your dance techniques and build a versatile portfolio of performances. 

Whether highly experienced or a novice, a Backup Dancer must continue learning and advancing their technique by attending daily classes. Even an out-of-work dancer must train to maintain and develop skills. Backup Dancers must learn new dance styles by attending various dance performances or workshops to supplement traditional dance movements. 

You should also be open to taking direction and accepting constructive criticism to grow in this career while contributing your ideas and suggestions to the director or choreographer. 

You can increase your income and enhance your portfolio by working in dance-related areas, such as choreography, community theatre, dance instruction, notation, singing, and acting.

 
To stay fit, healthy and qualified for work, you must constantly maintain good health and exercise routines. Some dancers may even take up advanced training to offer complementary therapies, become personal trainers, or run fitness activities that include yoga, Pilates and the Alexander Technique. 

Short courses in IT and project management can act as an add-on if you wish to work in dance administration and development.

Common Jobs

Backup Dancers commonly take up certain types of jobs.

They dance in music videos or films where they must often repeat the same thirty seconds of moves for an entire shoot. 

Performing on tours is a steady and well-paying job, although it means that you will spend a long time travelling and staying away from home. 

Another possibility is one-time performances at live events such as trade shows, fairs and festivals, live television spots. 

Auditions

Auditions are an opportunity to showcase your talents in front of casting directors. Large-scale or open auditions in which hundreds of dancers anticipate their moment are called “cattle calls”. However, your agent, if you have one, may find you a place in smaller or relatively exclusive or closed auditions.

After bagging a spot in an audition process through local listings, online sources or your agent, you would typically follow these steps:

• Prepare an online portfolio with an assortment of your best pictures and videos showcasing your work and talents.
• Arrive at the audition with a headshot and full body photograph, as required. 
• If you are selected, prepare yourself for a long day of callbacks as you navigate the multiple stages of the audition.

 Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Backup Dancers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, full-time Backup Dancers have company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

The retirement age for most Backup Dancers is typically the mid-30s due to the high physical demands of the profession.  

Although you are not the centre of attention, you play a critical part in making the lead look good. Every project needs a backup plan, and every storm requires a backup generator in place. Backup Dancers are the life of the stage, show or screen, even as they dance in the background as a team in large-scale performances, such as concerts, musicals or revues.

Reinforce your talent and determination with self-promotion. Let your performance entertain and tell a story. Use your movements, gestures and facial expressions efficiently to portray a character, story, situation or abstract concept. Make diversity and versatility the hallmarks of your portfolio. Relentlessly upgrade yourself and adapt to constantly evolving styles by learning new techniques. Attend auditions with undeterred energy and positivity. Build a strong network of contacts. Become visible to agents and employers by showcasing your dance skills on social media.