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Background Dancer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

Dixon Dance Studio

Be Seen First

Dance Instructor

Dixon, CA · On-site

$28 - $45/hr

Belonging - We create a community where every dancer feels seen, valued, and supported. * Growth ... ballet background and knowledge of proper ballet progression and technique. Preferred ...

Clayton Valley Dance Academy

Dance Instructor

Concord, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz and Musical Theater experience is also a plus but we are looking to hire for teachers with a background in teaching Tap, Tumbling and Preschool dance right away. We would ...

Clayton Valley Dance Academy

Dance Instructor

Concord, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz and Musical Theater experience is also a plus but we are looking to hire for teachers with a background in teaching Tap, Tumbling and Preschool dance right away. We would ...

Clayton Valley Dance Academy

Dance Instructor

Concord, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz and Musical Theater experience is also a plus but we are looking to hire for teachers with a background in teaching Tap, Tumbling and Preschool dance right away. We would ...

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All JobsBackground Dancer JobsBackground Dancer Jobs in California

Background Dancer information

See California salary details

$11

$16

$23

How much do background dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for background dancer in California is $16.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Background Dancer vs Choreographer?

AspectBackground DancerChoreographer
Required CredentialsDance training, audition experienceDance training, choreography experience, often a portfolio
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, stage performancesStudio, rehearsal spaces, production sets
Employer & Industry UsageProduction companies, entertainment industryDance companies, production teams, entertainment industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Background dancers perform in supporting roles, focusing on executing choreography as directed. Choreographers create and design dance routines, often leading and instructing dancers. While background dancers need dance skills and audition experience, choreographers require creative vision and choreography expertise. Both roles are integral to dance and entertainment productions but differ in responsibilities and career focus.

What does a background dancer do?

A background dancer performs synchronized dance routines behind main performers in music videos, concerts, or shows to enhance the visual appeal. They typically follow choreography, work in rehearsals, and may need to wear specific costumes or costumes provided by the production. Strong dance skills and the ability to work as part of a team are essential for this role.

How do I become a backing dancer?

To become a backing dancer, you should develop strong dance skills through training or classes, gain performance experience, and build a professional portfolio or demo reel. Networking with industry professionals and auditioning for dance roles or backup dancer positions are essential steps in establishing a career in this field.

How are background dancers hired?

Background dancers are typically hired through casting calls, talent agencies, or production companies that specialize in dance and performance roles. Applicants often need to audition, demonstrate their dance skills, and meet specific physical or experience requirements; some roles may also require headshots and resumes. Successful candidates are selected based on their ability to perform the choreography and fit the production's needs.

How to get a job as a background dancer?

To get a job as a background dancer, develop strong dance skills through training or practice, build a portfolio or demo reel, and gain experience by performing at local events or auditions. Networking with industry professionals and attending open casting calls can also increase opportunities. Flexibility with schedules and the ability to follow direction are important in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Background Dancer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Dancer, you need strong technical dance abilities across multiple styles, physical stamina, and often formal dance training or certifications. Familiarity with stage production systems, choreography software, and audition processes is typically required. Exceptional teamwork, adaptability, and a positive attitude are crucial soft skills for collaborating with choreographers and fellow performers. These skills ensure seamless performances, professional reliability, and the ability to quickly adapt to creative direction in dynamic environments.

What are background dancers?

Background dancers are professional performers who support lead artists or main performers during live shows, music videos, films, or stage productions. Their primary role is to enhance the visual and artistic appeal of a performance through choreographed dance routines. Background dancers work closely with choreographers and often need to learn and adapt to various dance styles. They play an essential role in creating dynamic and engaging performances, even though they are not the central focus on stage.

What are the typical work environments and team dynamics for a background dancer?

Background dancers often work in fast-paced, collaborative environments such as music video sets, live stage performances, or television productions. They regularly rehearse with choreographers and fellow dancers to ensure synchronized movements and high-quality performances. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as background dancers must quickly learn new routines and adjust to last-minute changes. Building strong relationships with the creative team and lead performers is also important, as it helps foster a supportive and productive work atmosphere.
What are popular job titles related to Background Dancer jobs in California? For Background Dancer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Background Dancer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Background Dancer jobs in California are:
Background Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Dancer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,262 per year, or $17 per hour.

Knott's Merry Farm - Dancers

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Buena Park, CA • On-site

$20.65/hr

Temporary

Posted 9 days ago

Six Flags rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 527 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 58 rated theme parks

Job description

$20.65 / hour

Knott's Merry Farm - Dancers


AUDITION

Tuesday, August 4th, 2026

Sign-in starts at 9:30am and ends at 9:55am
Audition starts at 10:00am

Knott’s Berry Farm
(8189 Western Ave. Buena Park, CA 90620)

Please schedule an audition reservation here:
www.calendly.com/kbf-auditions

Knott’s Berry Farm Entertainment is casting DANCERS with musical theater and ballet experience for Knott's Merry Farm. An ideal candidate will have a passion for providing the highest quality of entertainment, have a strong stage presence and the ability to commit to all rehearsals and show dates. A dance combination will be taught at the audition. Per the director's discretion, select candidates may be asked to sing material from the show or return for a callback. Seeking a diverse spectrum of gender identities, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. Please bring a recent headshot and performance resume. Please wear appropriate dance attire. Women should wear character heels to the audition. Rehearsals start in the beginning of November. Shows run on select dates from November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027. Event and rehearsal dates are subject to change. An ideal candidate is able to commit to all rehearsals and performance dates. Individuals who would like to be considered must attend an in-person audition. Please be prepared to stay as late as 4pm. This role is compensated at a rate of $20.65/hr.

  

For questions, please email the Casting Team at: KBF.Casting@sixflags.com


Knott’s is an equal opportunity employer. Performers must be at least 18 years of age. We support a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, physicals, and background checks.


  • Using your talents to enrich the Holiday atmosphere for guests
  • Working as a member of a team to achieve overall atmosphere and goals set by Entertainment leadership and show directors
  • Consistently performing your role as scripted and/or conceived
  • Remaining in character while "onstage” and in view of guests and interact with guests while performing in a professional and artistic manner
  • Providing guest service according to Six Flags standards when serving the guest or working with subordinates, including initiating guest interactions, answering questions, and giving accurate directions
  • Maintaining cleanliness and safety in assigned work area and performs all duties in compliance with Six Flags Safety guidelines and requirements and reports all unsafe or unusual conditions to supervision
  • Meeting scheduling availability requirements that include nights, weekends, and holidays 
  • Fulfilling attendance requirements as outlined in Six Flags' attendance policies
  • Adhering to Six Flags' Rules of Conduct including specific costuming and grooming standards as outlined in Employee Guidelines and other park/division specific policies and procedures
  • Performing other duties as they are assigned

  • Availability to work all assigned rehearsal and event dates that include weekday/weekends nights and holidays
  • Dance experience (required)
  • Singing experience (preferred)
  • Willingness and ability to wear heavy makeup for extended periods of time
  • Ability to pass a background check, if 18 years of age or older, which may include, but is not limited to, credit, criminal, and DMV
  • Ability to provide record of previous employment, education, and personal references, per Company policy, unless prohibited by federal, state, or provincial law

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