Article contributed by Ella Lassetter (Instagram)
As I enter my second year as a B.A. in Dance, the question, “So, will you ever get a job?” is becoming more frequent. It’s a question many dancers and artists know too well.
There is a common misconception that having a degree in dance – or any field of the fine arts – does not lead to a career. Historically, dancers have faced many challenges when searching for steady jobs, often relying on networking. Moreso, dancers do not scroll on Indeed and apply for a dozen jobs at once. But with recent media shining a light on the arts community in the Triangle, the employment landscape for dancers is starting to change. News outlets, magazines, and online resources have started to cover more festivals and shows, demonstrating a growing recognition and demand for dancers.
Recently, I have witnessed an increase in dance opportunities across the Triangle. From local studios searching for teachers and choreographers to organizations searching for administrative staff and event planners, there have been a number of full-time, part-time, and seasonal opportunities to work with dance organizations as well as festivals and community events. As fall enrollment for many schools and academies is quickly approaching, new jobs for teaching, administrative work, and professional performances are popping up across the Triangle and the surrounding state.
Upon first glance, these look like any other list of jobs; however, it reveals something deeper and more meaningful for the arts community of North Carolina: a growing and thriving arts community. Every new dance teacher brings another generation of quality instruction. Every administrative role ensures performances are produced, grants are written, and organizations are able to support their communities. Behind every successful production is a team whose work makes dance possible.
Dance careers look different than they once did. Improvements in technology and media has helped dancers connect across the globe, leading to job opportunities and valuable connections. In fact, many of today’s professionals often serve in many aspects of the arts community. From performers and teachers to administrators and social media managers, many young professionals are discovering the skills developed through dance – like communication, leadership, discipline, and creativity – are translating into roles they never anticipated.
For many college students and recent graduates, this growing array of opportunities in the Triangle offers equal opportunity for possibility. Not every dancer will immediately join a company straight out of college or their pre-professional program – and that’s okay! Many young professionals are learning that a fulfilling career in dance does not solely revolve around joining a company, but instead can include everything from stage management and costume design to choreography and event coordination.
The Triangle is stepping into a new age of a vibrant arts scene. The growth of dance-related positions is a sign of continued investment in the performing arts by the community. Every new opportunity for dancers is possible because of dedicated leaders, advocates, and professionals who are determined to help grow the arts in the Triangle. More dance job opportunities in the Triangle is evidence that arts organizations are growing, audiences are supporting live performance, and children are interested in learning the craft. Growth in jobs around the Triangle creates stability, ultimately strengthening the community.
So, maybe the better question is not whether dance majors will find jobs after college – but what kind of arts community we’re building and preparing for the generations that follow us.
