CGC Oakgrove Ebook 3.0

Dance and Musical Theatre

Sector Outlook The dance economy employs around 30,000 people in a variety of roles that include dancers, choreographers, technicians and managers. In addition, job opportunities also exist for community dance practitioners, promoters, producers, designers, publicists, technicians, physiotherapists, writers and academics. There are over 200 dance companies in the UK but you can also find employment with corporate events, in variety shows, and in clubs. West End musicals, operas, film, television, live music and video also offer job opportunities although competition for such roles is intense. Audience numbers for dance has grown in recent years and it is the fastest growing art form. There are at least 450 dancers in West End musicals, 209 on board cruise ships, 539 in contemporary dance and 262 in English and Scottish ballet. There are more opportunities than ever before for classical ballet dancers as long as you meet the standard required by companies such as the Birmingham Royal Ballet or the English National Ballet. Equally, contemporary dancers may find employment prospects with companies such as Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company or the Scottish Dance Theatre. Dance also offers career opportunities in education, health and recreation. According to the Central Council for Physical Recreation, dance is a popular activity for 10% of the UK population. When searching for work its therefore worthwhile looking out for any initiatives in your local area. There are over 500 theatres in the UK generating 2.8 billion pounds into the economy. London’s West end contributes around 1.9billion with 65% of people going to see musical theatre shows such as Cats, Miss Saigon or Les Miserables. Arts Council subsidy funding is contracting but still weights towards London. However, despite a reduction in subsidies, 600 organisations still got funding, so jobs are still on offer. Websites such as www.artsprofessional.co.uk/jobs, www.thestage.co.uk and www. scottishtheatre.org advertise a variety of job titles, which currently include Reception and Box Office Manager, Audience Development and Marketing Officer, Wig and Make Up Manager, Deputy Stage Manager, Administrative Assistant and Front of House Manager. To successfully find employment in the sector you will need to achieve technical qualifications, gain relevant experience and demonstrate initiative for an industry that operates on a tight budget. Above all you will need the determination to succeed and to love what you do.