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Choreograph Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Le Grand Union High

Colorguard Instructor

Le Grand, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

About the Employer Le Grand Union High School District Job Summary The contractor shall provide color guard instruction, choreography, and performance preparation services for participating students ...

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Choreograph information

What does a choreographer do?

A choreographer is responsible for creating and arranging dance movements and routines for performances such as ballets, musicals, music videos, theater productions, and television shows. They work closely with dancers, directors, and producers to interpret music and stories through movement. Choreographers may also teach and rehearse dance routines, select music, and ensure that performances meet artistic and technical standards. Their work involves creativity, collaboration, and an understanding of various dance styles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a choreographer?

To thrive as a Choreographer, you need extensive dance technique, creativity, and experience in various dance styles, often supported by formal dance training or a degree in dance. Familiarity with music editing software, stage production tools, and sometimes certification from dance organizations is beneficial. Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills help you guide dancers and work effectively with directors and production teams. These skills ensure the creation of innovative and cohesive performances while fostering a productive and inspiring environment.

What are some common challenges choreographers face when working with diverse groups of dancers?

Choreographers often work with dancers who have varying skill levels, backgrounds, and learning styles. One common challenge is adapting choreography to suit the strengths and limitations of each dancer while still achieving the artistic vision for the piece. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as choreographers must provide clear instructions and sometimes revise routines on the spot. Building a collaborative and supportive environment helps foster creativity and ensures that the final performance is cohesive and expressive.

What is the difference between Choreograph vs Dance Instructor?

AspectChoreographDance Instructor
CredentialsOften requires dance training, choreography experience, sometimes certifications in dance or performing artsRequires dance training, teaching certifications, and sometimes specific dance style certifications
Work EnvironmentCreates routines for performances, music videos, theater, or competitionsTeaches dance classes in studios, schools, or community centers
Industry UsageUsed in entertainment, theater, and performance artsUsed in education, fitness, and community programs

While both roles involve dance expertise, a choreograph designs dance routines for performances, whereas a dance instructor teaches dance techniques and skills to students. The roles often overlap in dance training and industry settings, but their primary focus differs: creation versus instruction.

How to get hired as a choreographer?

To get hired as a choreographer, build a strong portfolio of dance routines, gain experience through performances or assistant roles, and network within the dance and entertainment industry. Having formal training in dance and proficiency with choreography software can also improve job prospects. Many choreographers start by working with local dance companies or educational programs to develop their skills and reputation.

What is the demand for choreographers?

The demand for choreographers is steady in the entertainment, dance, and performing arts industries, with employment opportunities often linked to theater productions, television, film, and live events. Job growth is projected to be about average compared to other occupations, and success often depends on building a strong portfolio and networking within the industry.

What job does a choreographer do?

A choreographer designs and arranges dance routines and movement sequences for performances such as theater, film, television, or live shows. They collaborate with performers and directors, often using music and storytelling to create visually engaging choreography, and may need skills in dance, creativity, and knowledge of dance techniques. Choreographers typically work in rehearsal spaces and may require a background in dance and experience in choreography.

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For Choreograph jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Choreograph jobs in California are:

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Infographic showing various Choreograph job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Fall Play Fight Choreographer

San Francisco University High School

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$2.5K/day

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About San Francisco University High School :
UHS is a coeducational independent day school in San Francisco, California, with 514 students in grades 9-12. Founded in 1975, the school's mission is to challenge each individual to live a life of integrity, inquiry, and purpose larger than the self. UHS is located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco.
The Fight Choreographer designs, teaches, and oversees all physical combat, physical altercations, and high-energy stage movement for the high school's fall production. This role focuses on translating the director's vision into safe, repeatable, and dramatic stage choreography while mentoring student actors on safety protocols, body control, and physical storytelling.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Choreography Design: Create dramatic, story-driven combat sequences (unarmed or staged prop weapons, depending on the script) tailored to the physical capabilities of student performers.
  • Actor Instruction: Teach actors core stage combat techniques, focus, distance control, and physical partnership during scheduled rehearsal blocks.
  • Safety & Protocol Management: Establish strict backstage and onstage safety guidelines, leading mandatory daily physical warm-ups and "fight calls" before every run-through and performance.
  • Collaborative Staging: Partner with the Director and Stage Manager to integrate fight beats seamlessly into broader scene work, lighting cues, and floor space restrictions.
  • Maintenance & Consistency: Refine and clean up movements throughout dress rehearsals to ensure choreography remains controlled, safe, and believable every night.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated experience in stage combat instruction or martial arts/dance choreography for theater.
  • Certification or training with a recognized stage combat organization (e.g., SAFD) preferred.
  • Strong commitment to performer safety, body awareness, and injury prevention.
  • Excellent communication skills and enthusiasm for mentoring adolescent actors of varying experience levels.
Compensation:
This is a seasonal, part-time position. Compensation $2,500.00
Non-Discrimination Statement:
University High School values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds. All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, creed, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.
Application Process:
Apply through the school's website.
Salary Description
$2,500.00

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