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Background Dancer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

The Little Gym

Dance Instructor

Shaker Heights, OH · On-site

$16/hr

Have a strong background in dance, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and/or Hip Hop (recreational classes, competitive dance, dance team, professional work, etc.) * Assist the Dance Program Coordinator in ...

Uakron

Instructor, Dance Academy

Akron, OH

Successful candidates will be experienced in teaching dance to diverse students at all levels, use ... Shawna Harris Email: lharris@uakron.edu _____ Background Check Statement The University of Akron is ...

Tri-C

Instructor, Dance

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$42/hr

Instructor, Dance Department: Arts Prep Location: Metropolitan Campus Reports To: Director ... Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check ...

Tri-C

Adjunct Faculty, Dance

Westlake, OH · On-site

$951/wk

Adjunct Faculty, Dance Special Note: This is a part-time (adjunct) faculty position. Candidates ... Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check.

DanceBUG Inc.

Live Action Camera Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

Sports (Dance) Videographer / Camera Operator Duration: February - June 2026 Location: Nationwide ... Must pass a Criminal Background and Vulnerable Sector check Perks * Paid training in Jan/Feb 2026

DanceBUG Inc.

Live Action Camera Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$150 - $400/day

Sports (Dance) Videographer / Camera Operator Duration: February - June 2026 Location: Nationwide ... Must pass a Criminal Background and Vulnerable Sector check Perks * Paid training in Jan/Feb 2026

DanceBUG Inc.

Live Action Photographer

Columbus, OH · On-site

You'll travel to dance competitions and recitals, work in fast-paced lighting environments, and ... Clear criminal background & vulnerable sector check Equipment Needed * 2 professional DSLR or ...

DanceBUG Inc.

Live Action Photographer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$150 - $400/day

You'll travel to dance competitions and recitals, work in fast-paced lighting environments, and ... Clear criminal background & vulnerable sector check Equipment Needed * 2 professional DSLR or ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackground Dancer JobsBackground Dancer Jobs in Ohio

Background Dancer information

See Ohio salary details

$11

$16

$22

How much do background dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for background dancer in Ohio is $16.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.18 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 Ohio? For Background Dancer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Background Dancer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Background Dancer jobs in Ohio are:
Background Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Dancer job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 19% Full Time, and 81% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,969 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Dance Instructor

Dance Instructor

The Little Gym

Shaker Heights, OH • On-site

$16/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

The Little Gym rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 59 rated activity centers and activity clubs

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

Job Summary
Are you searching for a Dance Instructor job in a fun environment? We've got the job for you!
We're looking for someone who loves kids and loves to dance! Dance at The Little Gym is a full dance program for children, with a Serious Fun twist and we need a super energetic teacher with some awesome Dance experience to bring to the program! If you think you might be a good fit for our fun and fast-paced environment, then keep reading!
What We Expect From You...
  • Create a safe space for children to learn and fall in love with Dance! (...and gymnastics too!)
  • Teach amazing dance/gymnastics classes based on our proven curriculum and teaching method (don't worry, we'll teach you how!)
  • Have a strong background in dance, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and/or Hip Hop (recreational classes, competitive dance, dance team, professional work, etc.)
  • Assist the Dance Program Coordinator in planning any dance recitals (including selecting music, choreographing dances, ordering costumes, etc.)
  • Provide an outstanding customer service experience. We treat our members like family!
  • So fresh and so clean! We work as a team to keep our gym and lobby area cleaned and disinfected at all times.

You'd fit in here if...
  • You're totally open to being a goofball and love celebrating kid's success.
  • You have a strong background in dance. (A background in child development, physical education, and/or gymnastics helps as well!)
  • You live to serve! Making others feel good makes you feel good.
  • Kids really like you, but their parents really like you too.

You may think we're awesome because...
  • Kids walk out of our classes more confident than when they walked in.
  • We get our steps in and close our activity rings while we work because we're moving all day!
  • We get to build relationships with kids and their families that last a lifetime!
  • We get paid to dance!

Schedule
  • Part Time - 15 to 20 weekly hours
  • Thursday afternoon and Saturday are required shifts
  • Additional hours Monday through Sunday

But seriously, read the fine print...
The Little Gym is the world's premier enrichment and physical development center for children ages 4 months through 12 years. Programs offer children a Springboard to Life's Adventures by using movement-based learning and imaginative play to help build the confidence and skills needed at each stage of childhood.
For over 40 years, our trained instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through parent/child classes, gymnastics, dance and enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights, skill clinics and Awesome Birthday Bash parties. Once you become a part of The Little Gym squad, you will be part of a team dedicated to the growth and development of children all over the globe.
All associated locations are independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchise, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of that franchise. All inquiries about employment at this franchise should be made directly to the franchisee, and not to The Little Gym Franchising Corporate.
Compensation: $16.00 per hour
When you work somewhere this fun, it doesn't even feel like a job
Want to wake up excited to go to work every morning, confident that you're making a difference while having a blast? You've come to the right place. The Little Gym is the world's premier enrichment and physical development center for children ages 4 months through 12 years. Programs offer children a Springboard to Life's Adventures by using movement-based learning and imaginative play to help build the confidence and skills needed at each stage of childhood.
For over 40 years, our trained instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through parent/child classes, gymnastics, dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights and Awesome Birthday Bash parties. As a part of The Little Gym team, you will be part of a family dedicated to the growth and development of children all over the globe. We are looking for fun, outgoing, talented individuals who are looking to make a difference in their community. If this sounds like you, check out our open positions!
All associated locations are independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchise, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of that franchise. All inquiries about employment at this franchise should be made directly to the franchisee, and not to The Little Gym Franchising Corporate.

What The Little Gym employees say

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