How to become a choreographer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You'll need a high level of dance training and experience. You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate award to develop your skills. Relevant subjects include:
- professional dance
- musical theatre
- dance and choreography
These are offered by dance schools and universities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
- to pass an audition
More Information
Work
You could start out as a professional dancer and combine this with an assistant choreographer role, especially in a smaller company.
With further training and experience you could work your way up to become a choreographer.
Volunteering
You may find it useful to get work experience with an established choreographer.
You could also develop your skills by volunteering to choreograph amateur dance club performances.
Direct Application
You may be able to apply for work if you're an experienced professional dancer or dance teacher.
More Information
Career tips
When you're starting out it's good to have a mentor, perhaps someone who's work you admire, to guide you and give you constructive advice.
You can find professional choreographers in the UK Directory of Choreographers.
Observing as many different types of dance to increase your knowledge of dance styles is also useful.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join One Dance UK for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a choreographer from One Dance UK.
You can get more information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.