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Dance Performer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dance Instructor

Skokie, IL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Prefer Bachelor's Degree in Dance, Performing Arts, Education or related field. Prefer at least one to three years of experience in youth dance instruction including ballet, tap, contemporary and/or ...

Dance Instructor

Skokie, IL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Prefer Bachelor's Degree in Dance, Performing Arts, Education or related field. Prefer at least one to three years of experience in youth dance instruction including ballet, tap, contemporary and/or ...

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Dance Performer information

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$12

$21

$37

How much do dance performer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance performer in the United States is $21.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dance performer?

Dance performers are artists who use movement and choreography to express ideas, emotions, or tell stories to an audience. They may perform in a variety of settings, such as theaters, television, films, music videos, or live events. Dance performers often train in one or more styles, including ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, or ballroom, and work individually or as part of a group. Their work involves continuous practice, physical fitness, and the ability to interpret music and choreography creatively.

What are some common challenges faced by dance performers during live shows?

Dance performers often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to unexpected changes in choreography, handling costume or technical malfunctions, and maintaining peak energy levels throughout multiple performances. Live shows demand strong teamwork and communication with fellow dancers and backstage crews to ensure seamless transitions and recover gracefully from mistakes. Additionally, managing physical stress and preventing injuries is crucial, making self-care and proper warm-up routines essential parts of a dancer's daily responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Dance Performer, you need advanced technical proficiency in various dance styles, strong physical fitness, and often formal training from a dance academy or conservatory. Familiarity with stage production tools, choreography software, and sometimes certifications in specific dance methods are typical. Creativity, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to quickly learn new routines are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering captivating performances, adapting to diverse roles, and sustaining a successful career in the competitive performing arts industry.

What is the difference between Dance Performer vs Dance Instructor?

AspectDance PerformerDance Instructor
Required CredentialsPerformance experience, sometimes formal dance trainingDance certifications, teaching credentials, experience in instruction
Work EnvironmentStage performances, tours, eventsDance studios, schools, workshops
Employer & Industry UsagePerforming arts companies, theaters, entertainment industryEducational institutions, dance academies, community centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Dance performers focus on delivering live or recorded dance shows, requiring performance skills and stage experience. Dance instructors teach dance techniques, often holding certifications and working in educational settings. While both roles involve dance expertise, performers entertain audiences, whereas instructors train students. Understanding these differences helps individuals choose the right career path in the dance industry.

How do you become a dance performer?

To become a dance performer, individuals typically complete formal dance training through dance schools or programs, develop their skills through practice and performance experience, and often audition for roles in productions, companies, or shows. Building a strong portfolio, networking within the industry, and maintaining physical fitness are also important steps in pursuing a career as a dance performer.

What careers can you do with a dance performer?

A dance performer can pursue careers such as dance instructor, choreographer, dance therapist, or dance company member. These roles often require strong technical skills, performance experience, and sometimes certifications or training in dance styles or therapy methods.

What jobs can you get as a dance performer?

Dance performers can find jobs in entertainment industries such as theater, musical productions, music videos, and film. They may also work as backup dancers, dance instructors, or in corporate events and live shows, often requiring strong technical skills and physical fitness. Opportunities can vary based on experience, specialization, and location.

What cities are hiring for Dance Performer jobs?

Cities with the most Dance Performer job openings:

What states have the most Dance Performer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dance Performer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Dance Performer jobs?

For Dance Performer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dance Performer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,679 per year, or $22 per hour.

Professional Dance Performer and Dance Instructor we will train you

Bloomfield Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Fred Astaire Dance Studios is looking for a performer willing to learn the art of ballroom dance and create a career around performing all over the country and teaching beginners how to dance in Michigan. This is an opportunity for performers to have their chance in the spotlight and make a generous income doing what you love!

We will teach you how to become a dance instructor. No previous ballroom experience required, but dance experience is helpful. A charismatic, "people person" is preferred.

Check out a few of our instructors talk about their experience:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CLhIhfRO7E

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tYEZ0Vpr_E

Who we:

My name is Evan Mountain, and I am the owner of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios Michigan region along with the studios located in Bloomfield Hills and West Bloomfield. In 2005 my wife, Lada Reschikova, and I opened our first Fred Astaire Dance Studios and grew it with good dedicated dance instructors to be one of the largest Ballroom dance studios in America. I have helped may trained and untried dancers find a higher quality of life by become professional Fred Astaire Dance Studio instructors. Dance has brought tremendous JOY to my life, and I want to help our team and our students to experience the JOY of dancing! Take the scary step today and explore joining our Michigan team!

Who we are across the nation:

Fred Astaire Dance Studios is the leader in ballroom dance instruction across the country and around the world. Founded in 1947 with one studio on Park Avenue in Manhattan, we have grown our franchise network to over 200 dance studio locations continuing the legacy of Mr. Fred Astaire.

People ask, "Why do students stay with Fred Astaire Dance Studios?" It is because of the atmosphere of kindness, warmth and care given and received at every location. It's what our students tell us they notice from the first time they step inside our studio - an energy and sense of "FADS community" that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and FUN!

Fred Astaire Dance Studios has something for everyone. We offer group and private lessons, choreograph wedding dances or just prepare the happy couple and wedding party for the big day, provide opportunities to perform in beautiful venues, host local parties for dance practice and comradery and we host an average of 35 spectacular branded National, Inter-Regional and Regional Dance Competitions annually giving our students and professionals opportunities to compete in a variety of categories.