Emma could not take her eyes off the stage. She had never been to a ballet before. She was attending a production of Swan Lake with her aunt and uncle. It is the story of a princess who is turned into a swan by an evil magician.
During the performance, people in the audience whispered about how graceful the dancers were and how beautiful the music was. Emma was even more amazed by the way the performers onstage told the swan princess’s tale without saying a word. Instead, they used movement to show their characters’ feelings and personalities.
Emma stood up and clapped as the curtain fell at the end of the ballet. She had always known that dancing was fun and good exercise. Now she realized that it was also a creative way to share stories.
There are many other types of dance in addition to ballet. Hip-hop, jazz, modern, folk, and tap are some popular performance styles. Professional dancers rely on different techniques and settings to tell stories or share ideas with the audience. Some perform in operas and musical theater productions. Others dance in films, television shows, commercials, and music videos.
“Movement and dance are some of the most primal, basic things human beings do,” explains Louise Reichlin. She is the managing and artistic director of Los Angeles Choreographers & Dancers, in California. This nonprofit organization offers classes that let people of all ages and backgrounds explore dance. Reichlin has been a professional dancer for 51 years. She has learned the powerful effect that dance can have on an audience.
“In many ways, movement expresses more than words and music do,” she says. “Babies communicate with movement before they can even speak. I guess I see great importance in movement because it involves [natural] and unconscious behavior that is also very honest.”
LIFE & CAREER SKILLSYou can start preparing for a career as a dancer while you’re still in grade school. Louise Reichlin recommends taking as many dance and movement classes as possible. She adds that kids who are interested in becoming dancers can also practice in their own homes.
“It’s important to listen to all different kinds of music,” Reichlin advises. “And dance whenever you can. For example, dance in your living room when there’s music playing on the television or the radio!” What else might help you along the path to a career as a professional dancer?
Moving your body to tell a story or communicate a message is not as easy as you may think! Professional dancers need talent and stamina. They also need to understand music, rhythm, and technique. They spend a lot of time moving their bodies during auditions, rehearsals, and performances. Do you want to learn what your average day might be like if you end up choosing this career?
