Resume Examples for Dance

Resumes and CVs for dance professionals vary based on experience, whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned performer. Discover our templates designed for each career stage and take advantage of our Resume Builder to craft your unique application.

Entry-Level Dance Resume

Ideal for recent graduates entering the dance industry and career changers seeking new opportunities, this template offers a guide for crafting a resume with no experience that highlights your passion and skills.

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Why this resume works:

This resume example showcases a solid educational background with a master’s degree in dance performance and choreography, complemented by extensive performance experience.

Mid-Career Dance Resume

A great fit for mid-level dance professionals, this template effectively showcases recent achievements and supports aspirations for advanced roles in choreography or instruction.

dance-mid-level-resume
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Why this resume works:

Action verbs like “increased,” “choreographed,” and “managed” demonstrate proactive engagement in dance education. Metrics such as “improved student skills by 40% in a season” and “increased student enrollment by 30% in 1 year” highlight concise, scannable bullet points showcasing tangible accomplishments.

Experienced Dance Resume

An ideal choice for seasoned dance professionals with over a decade of experience, this template supports applicants seeking senior positions in choreography, performance, or education.

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Why this resume works:

The reverse-chronological work history prominently showcases over 12 years of experience in the dance industry, allowing significant achievements to capture immediate attention. Education is strategically placed lower on the resume since hiring managers value practical performance and teaching accomplishments more than academic qualifications at this advanced career stage.

Dance Resume Template (Text)

Use this customizable text format of a dance resume to copy, edit, and personalize directly in your document.

Ming Li

Tacoma, WA 98401

Professional Summary

Dynamic dancer and choreographer with 5-year journey creating impactful performances. Expert in dance pedagogy, enhancing skills and audience engagement. Proven track record in choreography, boosting creativity and collaboration.

Work Experience

May 2024 – May 2026

Harmony Dance Studio – Tacoma, WA

Dance

  • Choreographed 30+ dance routines yearly
  • Trained dancers, improving skills by 60%
  • Led classes boosting attendance by 15%

May 2023 – May 2024

ArtMotion Dance Company – Silverlake, WA

Choreographer

  • Directed shows with budgets up to $50K
  • Designed 50+ dance pieces annually
  • Increased online engagement by 25%

May 2021 – May 2023

Rhythmic Moves Academy – Silverlake, WA

Dance Instructor

  • Developed customized lesson plans
  • Mentored 150+ students in one year
  • Organized successful dance workshops

Education

June 2020
University of California Los Angeles, CA
Master of Fine Arts in Choreographic Inquiry

June 2018
University of California Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Arts in Dance

Certifications

  • Certified Dance Instructor – Dance Instructor Association
  • Professional Choreographer Certification – Arts Training Council

Skills

  • Choreography
  • Stage Performance
  • Dance Pedagogy
  • Dance Techniques
  • Audience Engagement
  • Creative Collaboration
  • Event Planning
  • Digital Marketing in Arts

How to Write a Dance Resume

As a dancer, knowing how to write a resume means showcasing your skills and experiences in a format that clearly communicates your unique talents. Use the guidance below to emphasize your strengths and tailor your resume for the positions you’re targeting.

1. Contact Info

Your contact information should be prominently displayed and professionally formatted at the top of your resume.

Be sure to include:

  • Full name
  • Phone number
  • Professional email address
  • City and state (ZIP code is optional)
  • LinkedIn profile or relevant portfolio (if applicable)
TipPRO TIP

Skip including personal information like your Social Security number, age, or irrelevant hobbies unless the employer specifically requests these details.

2. Resume Profile

A resume profile is a concise introduction that typically consists of two to four sentences. Its primary function is to act as an engaging pitch for hiring managers, showcasing your key qualifications and encouraging them to delve deeper into your resume.

This profile is positioned at the top of your resume and can be formatted as either a summary or an objective. Each serves distinct purposes but both aim to capture attention:

  • A resume summary highlights your most relevant experience, skills, and achievements in the dance industry. This format is effective for those with performance or teaching experience who want to emphasize their artistic contributions as passionate dancers.
  • A resume objective highlights your career aspirations and what you aim to achieve in your next role. It’s particularly beneficial for recent dance graduates or performers transitioning into new areas, as well as those with limited professional experience in the field.

Let’s explore the differences between a resume summary and a resume objective in the following examples:

Dance resume summary example:

Dynamic dance instructor with over 6 years of experience in diverse studio environments and community programs. Proficient in choreography, performance coaching, and student engagement. Celebrated for fostering creativity and discipline while improving students’ confidence and technical skills through personalized instruction.

Dance resume objective example:

Recent dance graduate excited to launch a career in a dynamic performance environment. Committed to artistic expression and collaboration, bringing strong adaptability and creativity to a theater or dance company setting.

3. Work Experience

The work experience on your resume is a critical aspect of your application. Employers assess not only the positions you’ve held but also the contributions you’ve made to gauge your overall impact.

This section reveals how your background in dance aligns with the requirements of the role, showcasing your unique qualifications and potential to excel.

The work experience section should contain:

  • Job title
  • Employer name and location
  • Dates of employment (month/year)
  • 3–5 bullet points highlighting your choreography, performance, and teaching accomplishments

When crafting your work experience bullet points, tailor your language to the dance field by incorporating terms that resonate with the industry. Begin each bullet with strong action verbs such as “Choreographed,” “Performed,” or “Directed” to improve impact.

Use quantifiable details whenever possible to showcase your achievements. Specific metrics, like the number of performances or students taught, provide tangible proof of your contributions and help set you apart from other job seekers.

In general, consider following the format of:

[action verb] + [responsibility] = [result/achievement]

For example:

Conducted over 15 dance classes weekly for diverse age groups, achieving a 95% student retention rate and fostering a positive learning environment.

Note that you can also flip the result/achievement with the responsibility:

Increased student performance in regional competitions by 20% through tailored training programs and personalized feedback.

Explore more work experience examples for dancers further down the page.

4. Skills

The ATS-friendly resume skills section offers a concise overview of your dance-related abilities, enabling hiring managers to quickly assess your qualifications while ensuring compatibility with applicant tracking systems. This streamlined presentation highlights your expertise and facilitates an efficient review process.

Skills can be categorized into three key areas:

  • Soft skills are personal qualities that influence how dancers interact and collaborate with others. For those in dance, essential soft skills include creativity, discipline, communication, and teamwork.
  • Hard skills are specific, measurable abilities gained through education, training, or experience. For dancers, examples include mastering choreography, executing various dance styles like ballet and hip-hop, and understanding musical timing.
  • Technical skills encompass the specific abilities required to perform tasks within a profession. In dance, this includes mastery of choreography software, use of stage lighting systems, and skill in sound equipment management.

Generally, include a diverse array of relevant skills that match the job requirements to showcase your qualifications. For more industry-specific skill examples, please explore the additional resources available down the page.

TipPRO TIP

If you’re a newer dancer, consider positioning your skills section near the top of your resume right after your summary. For those with more experience, it’s better to place this section lower, weaving most skills into your performance history.

5. Education

Understanding how to list education on your resume can significantly improve how you present your qualifications. Begin with your most recent or relevant dance degree, and make sure to include the type of degree along with the institution name.

If you’re a recent graduate, consider adding your graduation year, GPA (if it’s 3.5 or higher), any honors received, or notable coursework related to dance.

Dance resume education section example:

Associate of Arts in Dance
California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA
Graduated: 2023 | Outstanding Student Award

TipPRO TIP

When listing multiple degrees on your resume, ensure you format them in reverse-chronological order, starting with the highest qualification first, such as Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) followed by Associate of Arts (AA) in Dance.

6. Certifications

Certifications highlight your expertise and ensure you remain knowledgeable in your field. While not a standard component of every resume, listing certifications is important for many dancers and performers, especially those aiming for specialized roles in theater or competitive dance. Employers often seek specific credentials such as dance certifications or training in particular styles to assess job seekers’ qualifications.

Be sure to prominently display relevant certifications that improve your application. Keep them updated and formatted clearly to showcase your commitment to professional growth.

Dance certification examples:

  • Dance Teacher Certification | National Dance Education Organization | Expires: 03/2028
  • Certified Zumba Instructor | Zumba Fitness LLC | Expires: 11/2027
  • Ballet Technique Certification | Royal Academy of Dance | Expires: 01/2028
  • Hip Hop Dance Certification | Dance Masters of America | Expires: 09/2027

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Tailor Your Work History to Beat the ATS

Your work experience section should provide more than just job titles. It’s your opportunity to highlight the measurable impact you’ve had in your dance career, showcasing specific achievements that resonate with potential employers. This approach not only enriches your resume but also ensures it’s ATS-friendly, allowing applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan it effectively.

To create a compelling work history, tailor your descriptions to align with the role you’re pursuing. Begin by closely examining the job description for relevant keywords and phrases. Identify key skills or requirements that appear frequently and incorporate those elements into your experience narratives for maximum relevance.

These examples are pulled from our most-used entries in the resume builder—based on what hiring managers respond to most.

  • Choreographed and directed dance performances for over 100 students, improving their stage presence and confidence by 20%.
  • Organized weekly rehearsals that increased group cohesion, leading to a 15% improvement in performance quality ratings.
  • Mentored junior dancers, fostering skill development and increasing participation in competitions by 30%.
  • Used video analysis tools to provide constructive feedback, improving technique and artistry among dancers.
  • Collaborated with fellow instructors to design innovative lesson plans that engaged diverse learning styles.

Examples of Skills for Dance

Including the right skills for your resume demonstrates to employers and ATS that you possess the abilities necessary for success in the dance industry. Since resumes are often scanned quickly, ensure your skills are focused, relevant, and closely aligned with the job description.

The following list reflects what is currently valued in the dance field. These skills frequently appear in successful dancer resumes and resonate well with hiring managers seeking talent that matches their needs.

5 Soft Skills for Your Resume or CV

  • Team collaboration
  • Performance adaptability
  • Effective communication
  • Creative expression
  • Cultural awareness

5 Hard Skills for Your Resume or CV

  • Choreography creation
  • Dance notation (Labanotation, Benesh)
  • Performance analysis
  • Stage direction and blocking
  • Dance education methodologies

What’s a Fair Dance Salary?

Researching salary information is essential for assessing job offers, negotiating pay, and making informed career choices in the dance profession. The data presented below comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and includes the latest national averages for dancers.

It’s best to note that actual salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, training, and specialization. Dancers performing in major theatrical productions or working with prestigious ballet companies often command higher compensation compared to those who teach dance classes or perform at local events.

Alabama$61,330
Alaska$75,070
Arizona$62,310
Arkansas$61,310
California$96,440
Connecticut$75,070
Delaware$71,140
District of Columbia$80,820
Florida$59,820
Georgia$70,130
Hawaii$71,590
Idaho$62,640
Illinois$69,870
Indiana$59,040
Iowa$58,910
Kansas$58,950
Kentucky$64,400
Louisiana$68,170
Maine$61,790
Maryland$79,410
Massachusetts$82,910
Michigan$66,020
Minnesota$68,080
Mississippi$58,570
Missouri$57,120
Montana$64,770
Nebraska$69,480
Nevada$67,600
New Hampshire$72,660
New Jersey$82,460
New Mexico$76,030
New York$77,720
North Carolina$56,920
North Dakota$62,500
Ohio$68,730
Oklahoma$54,530
Oregon$79,550
Pennsylvania$67,540
Rhode Island$74,350
South Carolina$59,780
South Dakota$54,930
Tennessee$60,390
Texas$65,140
Utah$68,290
Vermont$64,900
Virginia$70,720
Washington$87,560
West Virginia$54,910
Wisconsin$66,620
Wyoming$67,530
Guam$44,770
Puerto Rico$49,140
Virgin Islands$59,490

Key Takeaways

  • Tailor your resume to the job description. Use specific language from the posting to highlight relevant experience and skills for both ATS and human reviewers.
  • Incorporate quantifiable achievements to demonstrate value. Highlight metrics like performance ratings, competition placements, or teaching hours that showcase your impact.
  • Select the appropriate format based on your experience level. Beginners might prefer a functional layout, while seasoned dancers often opt for a reverse-chronological format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last Update:

What resume format should I use for my dance resume?

There are three main resume formats to consider when applying for a dance position. Your choice should reflect your experience level and the specific skills or achievements you wish to highlight:

  • Chronological: The chronological resume format is the most widely used style, emphasizing your work history by clearly outlining your roles and accomplishments. This structure is particularly beneficial for applicants whose relevant job experiences reinforce their qualifications, showcasing a consistent career path that adds credibility to their application.
  • Functional: The functional resume, also known as a skills-based resume, emphasizes an applicant’s qualifications and skills instead of concentrating on work history. This format helps individuals who lack relevant experience in the field or have gaps in employment to showcase their abilities more prominently.
  • Combination: The combination resume format merges the strengths of chronological and functional resumes by showcasing both skills and work history. This approach allows professionals to emphasize their abilities while illustrating career growth, making it ideal for those transitioning into new roles or advancing in their field.
Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

Yes, you should include a cover letter with your dance job application. A well-crafted cover letter complements your resume by allowing you to express your passion for dance and elaborate on experiences that showcase your skills and dedication, giving you an edge over job seekers who submit only a resume.

If you’re hesitant about writing a cover letter, there are many resources available to assist you. You can find guides on how to write a cover letter that is compelling, along with examples tailored specifically for the dance industry. Exploring various formats will help you choose one that best highlights your unique talents and experiences.

For those looking to simplify the process, consider using a cover letter generator, which can provide structured templates and suggestions tailored to dance positions.

How long should a dance resume be?

For dancers with less than 10 years of experience, a one-page resume is ideal for showcasing training, performances, and skills. Highlight notable roles or collaborations along with relevant education that supports your dance career. A clean format improves clarity.

Dancers in senior or specialized positions may extend their resumes to two pages if they maintain focus on effective content. Include leadership experiences, advanced techniques, and significant achievements while ensuring every entry adds value to your professional narrative without unnecessary embellishments.

What keywords should I include to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS)?

To improve your chances of passing ATS screening, focus on incorporating keywords and phrases from the job listing directly into your resume. Look for specific terms related to dance such as choreography, performance, or technique that resonate with the role you’re applying for.

Additionally, highlight any relevant certifications like Dance Educator Certification or Associate of Arts in Dance. If applicable, mention any technical skills such as skill in digital dance software or video editing tools. This targeted approach will help ensure your qualifications shine through during the selection process.

Should I include dance workshops or community performances?

Yes, particularly if you’re starting your career. Showcasing workshops and performances highlights your practical experience and dedication to the art form. This can set you apart, especially if you lack extensive formal training or professional credits on your resume.

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Kirsten Chorpenning Career Advice Expert

Kirsten Chorpenning is a career advice writer who empowers job seekers to take control of their career paths using Monster’s comprehensive job search and resume tools. She specializes in helping job seekers find rewarding jobs in today’s dynamic work environment.Holding a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in writing, Kirsten combines academic knowledge with five years of career industry experience to provide practical job search guidance. She focuses on the nuances of the modern job market and effective strategies for job applications. Her work, which focuses on providing actionable advice on how to secure interviews and achieve long-term career success, has been featured in Forbes, Money Talks News, MSN, and FlexJobs.

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