How to become a musical theater choreographer

How to become a Musical Theater Choreographer

There are no strict educational prerequisites to becoming a musical theater choreographer, as creativity and artistic vision are ore often more important than formal credentials. However, most successful musical theater choreographers have pursued a combination of formal training, practical experience, and artistic exploration in dance and choreography. Here are some educational pathways and qualifications that can benefit aspiring musical theater choreographers:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. High school education provides a foundation in basic communication and math and organizational skills, and it lays the groundwork for further learning.

Bachelor's Degree
Many choreographers begin their training by earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree in Dance from a reputable college, university, or conservatory. These programs typically provide comprehensive training in various dance styles, including jazz, tap, ballet, modern, and hip-hop; techniques, choreography, composition, and improvisation; dance history and dance theory; as well as performance skills, including those relevant to musical theater.

Some aspiring musical theater choreographers may opt to complete a double major in dance and theater arts. Other possible combinations include dance and music, dance and music theory and composition, or dance and visual and performing arts.

Look for programs at universities, colleges, or conservatories with reputable performing arts departments.

Master's Degree
Some choreographers choose to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or Master of Arts (MA) Degree in Choreography, Dance, Theater Arts, or a related field to further deepen their artistic practice, develop advanced choreographic and musical abilities, and engage in scholarly research or pedagogical studies. Studying the works of renowned choreographers and analyzing choreographic techniques is frequently an aspect of these graduate programs.

Performance Experience and Mentorship
Throughout your education and training, take dance classes in various styles and participate in dance performances, musicals, or theater productions to gain on-stage experience. Understanding the performer's perspective is valuable when creating choreography that enhances storytelling, character development, and artistic interpretation.

Seek opportunities to choreograph for school productions, community theaters, dance companies, summer stock theaters, or other amateur and professional venues. Develop your skills in creating and staging dance sequences.

Seek mentorship from experienced choreographers, teachers, or industry professionals who can provide feedback, guidance, and support as you develop your musical theater choreography skills and artistic vision. Look for opportunities to work as an assistant choreographer or intern with established professionals. Assistants often play a crucial role in rehearsals, production meetings, and behind-the-scenes work.

Create Your Own Work and Build a Portfolio
Begin creating your own musical theater choreography works, whether as part of student showcases, independent projects, or collaborative ventures. Experiment with different movement styles, themes, music, and concepts to develop your unique choreographic voice and style.

Start small with solo or duet pieces, and gradually expand to larger group works as you gain confidence and experience.

Document your musical theater choreography works through videos, photos, and written descriptions to create a portfolio showcasing your creative process, artistic accomplishments, and choreographic style. Use your portfolio to apply for opportunities, share your work with collaborators, and promote yourself as a musical theater choreographer.

Continuing Education and Professional Development
Even after completing formal education, musical theater choreographers often continue to pursue continuing education and professional development opportunities. This includes seeking out choreography workshops, masterclasses, residencies, grants, and certifications, to further refine their skills, stay current with industry trends, and expand their artistic networks with dancers, choreographers, directors, producers, and other industry professionals.

Certifications and Professional Organizations
While there are no specific certifications exclusively for musical theater choreographers, there are various certifications and credentials related to dance, choreography, and music that may be relevant or beneficial for choreographers pursuing professional opportunities. Here are some examples:

• Dance Teaching Certifications – Choreographers who also teach dance may pursue certifications offered by dance organizations or institutions specializing in dance education, such as the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). These certification programs typically cover pedagogical principles, teaching methods, curriculum development, and classroom management techniques.
• Dance Therapy Certifications – Choreographers interested in the therapeutic aspects of dance may pursue certification as dance movement therapists from programs accredited by the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA). Dance therapy certifications typically require completion of specific coursework, supervised clinical experience, and passing a certification exam.
• Dance Fitness Certifications – Choreographers interested in fitness and wellness may pursue certifications as dance fitness instructors, such as Zumba, Barre, or Pilates certifications. These credentials can be relevant for musical theater choreographers who incorporate movement training and conditioning into their practice. Organizations like the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) and Yoga Alliance (YA) offer certification programs in these areas.
• Choreography Competitions and Awards – While not certifications in the traditional sense, winning or placing in choreography competitions or receiving awards for choreographic excellence can provide recognition and validation of a choreographer's skills and artistic achievements.
• First Aid and CPR Certification – Choreographers working in educational or community settings may benefit from obtaining certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants during rehearsals, workshops, or performances.

In addition to these certifying bodies, the following organizations also support the musical theater choreography community, providing advocacy, access to resources, and platforms for networking, information exchange and collaboration, and continuing education and professional development:

• National Alliance for Musical Theatre (NAMT)
• American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA)
• Dance/USA
• National Dance Alliance (NDA)
• American Dance Guild (ADG)
• Regional Dance America (RDA)
• Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC)
• Dance ICONS, Inc. – International Consortium for Advancement in Choreography, Inc.
• Theatre Communications Group (TCG)
• National Dance Education Organization (NDEO)
• International Association of Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS)