Creating a comprehensive CV can be a significant challenge for dancers, as it needs to encapsulate their dynamic range of performances, skills, and experiences. Our guide provides clear instructions to help you effectively showcase your artistic accomplishments and tailor your experience to different roles within the dance industry.
Learn how to create your next dance CV by:
- Applying the simplest CV design, so that recruiters can easily understand your expertise, skills, and professional background;
- Ensuring you stand out with your header, summary or objective statement, and a designated skills section;
- Creating your CV experience section - no matter how much expertise you have;
- Using real life professional CV examples to enhance the structure and outline of your profile.
If you still have no muse to write your professional CV, find some more industry-leading examples.
Resume examples for dance
Explore additional dance cv samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.
By Experience
Junior Dance Instructor
- Elegant Structure and Presentation - The CV is skillfully structured, offering clarity and conciseness that make it easy to navigate. Each section is clearly defined, ensuring the reader can effortlessly track Noah’s career progression, skills, and achievements. The use of bullet points in the experience and achievements sections enhances readability and allows for fast comprehension of the key points.
- Impressive Career Growth and Specialization - Noah Jones's career trajectory demonstrates significant growth within the performing arts industry, from an intern at an esteemed dance studio to a dance instructor at a prominent performing arts school. His progressive roles showcase a deepening specialization in dance instruction, particularly in jazz and hip-hop, and a widening of responsibilities, from assisting instructors to choreographing entire routines and organizing events.
- Effective Impact through Measurable Achievements - The CV meticulously details achievements with metrics that underscore Noah’s effectiveness and impact. For instance, increasing student engagement by 30% and successfully launching community outreach programs highlight his ability to attract and retain interest, vital traits for a role centered on mentorship and arts engagement. These quantitative successes reflect Noah’s capacity to generate tangible community and educational benefits.
Senior Dance Therapist
- Impressive Career Progression - Sophia Foster's career trajectory is characterized by steady growth, showcasing a transition from a Recreation Therapist to a senior leadership role. This progression reflects her competence and the trust placed in her abilities, culminating in her current position as a Senior Recreation Therapist where she leads and innovates in therapeutic recreation.
- Strong Focus on Therapeutic Recreation Tools and Methodologies - The CV highlights her proficiency with Electronic Health Records (EHR), a fundamental tool in therapeutic settings. Her expertise in utilizing EHR for data management and accuracy improvements demonstrates her technical depth and the ability to leverage technology effectively for enhanced patient outcomes and program efficiency.
- Outstanding Achievements with Quantifiable Impact - The CV effectively illustrates Sophia’s achievements with concrete metrics, such as increasing participant engagement by 30% and improving satisfaction scores through person-centered experiences. These accomplishments not only underscore her effectiveness but also highlight her capacity to drive meaningful, quantifiable improvements within her organization.
By Role
Dance Instructor
- Effective Content Presentation - Edward Mitchell's CV is well-organized, concise, and clear. Each section is neatly presented, allowing for easy navigation and quick comprehension of essential details such as work experience, education, skills, and achievements. The use of bullet points within the experience section enhances readability and highlights key accomplishments.
- Consistent Career Growth in Arts Education - The CV effectively depicts Edward's career trajectory within the performing arts sector. Starting as a Dance Teacher, he advanced to Drama Workshop Leader and now serves as a Dance & Drama Instructor. This progression reflects his deepening expertise and growing responsibility in the field of arts education.
- Innovative Teaching Methodologies - Edward's use of unique courses like 'Dance Fusion' and innovative drama games illustrates his creativity and dedication to enhancing student engagement and learning experiences. He efficiently demonstrates his industry-specific skills by portraying how these initiatives led to tangible improvements in students' performance and satisfaction.
Dance Therapist
- Progressive Career Development - Grace Bailey's CV illustrates a clear progression in her career within the field of dance therapy, moving from an assistant role to a senior dance therapist. This trajectory reflects her capacity to take on increasing responsibility and leadership roles, signifying career growth and dedication to her field.
- Unique Therapeutic Expertise - The CV presents specialized skills in dance and movement therapy, detailing how Grace has implemented innovative treatment programs that led to substantial client progress. Her ability to pioneer community outreach and lead workshops reveals a commitment to not only personal methodologies but also the broad dissemination of therapeutic practices.
- Impactful Achievements with Measurable Outcomes - Grace Bailey has effectively leveraged her skills to produce significant outcomes, such as a documented 45% increase in client satisfaction and a 30% uptick in client goal achievement. These accomplishments underscore the tangible benefits she brings to organizations and her capacity to improve client-centered services directly.
Dance Company Manager
- Clear progression in leadership roles - The CV effectively showcases Freya Richardson's career trajectory from a dedicated dance instructor to a Dance Company Director, highlighting her growth in responsibilities, leadership skills, and increased influence within the dance community over the years.
- Integration of technical depth and contemporary methodologies - Freya's profile uniquely blends traditional dance expertise with modern instructional methodologies, such as her role in integrating Acrobatic Arts into the curriculum, demonstrating her commitment to innovation and relevance in dance education.
- Impactful communication and organizational skills - The CV underscores Freya's ability to enhance parental communication and streamline administrative processes, which not only improved student and parent satisfaction but also ensured the smooth operation of the company's educational programs, showcasing her organizational acumen.
Dance Notator
- Comprehensive career progression - Rosie's CV showcases an impressive career trajectory from English Teacher to Curriculum Coordinator, and finally to Senior Teacher, indicating a consistent upward movement and development of expertise in the educational sector. Each role transitioned emphasizes an increase in responsibilities and influence, displaying her adeptness in educational leadership.
- Strong focus on instructional innovation and improvement - The CV highlights Rosie's dedication to curriculum development and innovative teaching methods, evidenced by successful initiatives like the tailored literacy program and a creative arts-integrated science curriculum. These initiatives not only improved student outcomes but also demonstrated her ability to tackle challenges with novel approaches, reflecting competence and forward-thinking.
- Effective impact measurement and communication - The CV details specific and measurable achievements, such as a 15% increase in reading proficiency and a 20% rise in student engagement through technology integration. Rather than merely listing duties, it emphasizes how her actions have translated into significant educational and operational improvements, illustrating a results-driven mindset.
Dance Costume Designer
- Clear and Comprehensive Structure - Freddie Hughes’s CV is meticulously organized, making it easy to navigate through various sections such as experience, education, skills, and achievements. This clarity in presentation ensures that each aspect of their career is highlighted effectively, aiding the reader in quickly grasping the core competencies and professional journey.
- Progressive Career Growth in Costume Design - Starting from a Costume Designer at Bristol Old Vic to a Senior Lecturer at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, the career trajectory clearly shows advancement and deep industry involvement. The progression reflects a consistent upward movement, illustrating not only Hughes's leadership but also a strong commitment to academic and practical facets of costume technology.
- Innovation and Sustainability in Costume Technology - A unique aspect of this CV is its highlighting of sustainable practices in the industry, with accomplishments such as pioneering the use of sustainable materials leading to a reduction in waste. This focus on eco-friendly design not only reveals Freddie's innovative mindset but also their alignment with contemporary environmental priorities in costume production.
Dance Photographer
- Structured Experience Progression - The CV offers a clear career trajectory, starting from freelance work and advancing to senior roles in well-regarded companies. This linear growth demonstrates a commitment to the field of dance photography and showcases the candidate's ability to take on increasing responsibilities and leadership duties over time.
- Specialized Skills and Techniques - The CV underscores the photographer's use of industry-specific methodologies, including innovative motion capture techniques and advanced postproduction workflows. These specialized skills are vital for producing high-quality dance photography and set the candidate apart by highlighting technical prowess in capturing dynamic motion.
- Demonstrated Business Impact - The CV highlights impactful achievements, such as leading projects that increased company reputation by 15% and boosting brand recognition by 35%. Each accomplishment is tied to business outcomes, illustrating how the candidate's contributions directly enhance client satisfaction, repeat business, and brand prestige, making them valuable to any organization.
Dance Critic
- Illustrates a Diverse Skill Set - Edward's CV highlights a blend of skills ranging from choreography and dance education to virtual instruction and event coordination. This illustrates a comprehensive understanding of both the artistic and logistical elements of dance, making him a versatile practitioner capable of adapting to various roles within the dance industry.
- Clear Career Progression - The career trajectory detailed in the CV outlines Edward's growth from a Dance Instructor to a Senior Dance Instructor, showcasing a clear path of advancement within the field. His movement from one prestigious institution to another, along with increased responsibilities such as mentoring junior instructors and implementing large-scale curriculum projects, is indicative of his professional development and leadership capabilities.
- Showcases Strong Community Impact - Achievements throughout Edward's career are not only impressive in numbers but also in community involvement and impact. The CV emphasizes his leadership in community dance initiatives and educational programs, underscoring his commitment to making dance accessible to a broader audience and enhancing arts visibility in the local community.
Dance Historian
- Content Presentation and Clarity - The CV displays a well-organized structure with clearly defined sections, aiding in the seamless navigation of Ella Bennett's extensive career details. It employs concise and targeted language to present qualifications and achievements succinctly, maintaining clarity and focus throughout.
- Career Trajectory and Growth - Bennett’s progression from Dance Coordinator to Dance Faculty illustrates significant career advancement within the dance education sector. Each role sees an escalation in responsibility and impact, underlying a professional trajectory marked by dedication and expertise enhancement.
- Unique Industry-Specific Elements - The CV showcases specialized dance education tools and methodologies, such as syllabus preparation for various dance forms and student assessment techniques. These elements demonstrate Bennett's technical depth and alignment with industry standards in dance education.
Dance Lighting Designer
- Career trajectory shows steady growth and expertise - Isabelle Reed's CV highlights a progressive career advancement, moving from a Lighting Specialist at the National Theatre to a Senior Lighting Designer at the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company. This upward trajectory underscores a deepening expertise and industry recognition, reflecting her commitment to the field and adaptability to increasing responsibilities.
- Diverse skill set with industry-specific methodologies - Isabelle demonstrates a strong blend of expertise in lighting and sound design, paired with technical proficiency in both automated and manual fly systems. Her participation in courses such as "Advanced Lighting Technology" and "Sound Design in Theatre" further indicates her commitment to staying abreast of cutting-edge technologies, an essential aspect for innovation in theatre arts.
- Strong leadership and mentorship - The CV highlights her leadership prowess as she has led teams of technicians and mentored students and interns, resulting in high success rates for aspiring professionals. Isabelle's ability to develop successful training programs and team leadership has not only contributed to her personal career success but also fostered future talent in the theatre industry.
Dance Production Manager
- Clear and Structured Content Presentation - The CV begins with a clear and effective summary that encapsulates Arthur's extensive experience in dance production coordination. The layout is structured logically, presenting key sections like experience, education, skills, achievements, and languages in a concise manner, making it easy for the reader to understand his professional journey at a glance.
- Distinguished Career Trajectory and Growth - Arthur's career trajectory showcases a steady and impressive growth from a Production Technician to a Senior Dance Production Manager. His promotion into leadership roles and handling of bigger responsibilities, such as overseeing major productions and managing budgets, indicate his competence and readiness for increased responsibilities in the industry.
- Strong Leadership and Mentorship Skills - The CV highlights Arthur's leadership and mentorship abilities, particularly through his achievements in mentoring over 15 technical assistants and developing a successful internship program. These initiatives not only emphasize his commitment to fostering talent but also indicate his capability in team leadership and professional development.
Dance Marketing Manager
- Structured for Clarity and Impact - The CV is structured with well-defined sections such as Summary, Experience, Education, Skills, and Achievements. Each section is clear and concise, focusing on relevant content that is easy to navigate, allowing hiring managers to quickly assess Henry's qualifications and expertise.
- Illustrates Career Growth and Leadership - Henry's career trajectory from a Marketing Executive to a Marketing Manager highlights his professional growth, showcasing his ability to handle increased responsibilities and leadership roles. Progressing through reputable companies like Aviva, Vitality Health, and Bupa UK, it reflects a solid and consistent career development within the marketing field.
- Innovative Marketing Strategies and Achievements - The CV distinctly highlights industry-specific methodologies Henry has employed, such as integrating digital marketing campaigns and implementing advanced PPC optimization strategies. His achievements, like reducing cost-per-click by 25% and increasing brand recognition by 50%, underscore the practical impact and value he brings to an organization.
Dance Education Coordinator
- Comprehensive Career Growth - George Johnson's career trajectory shows a solid progression from a Physical Education Coordinator to a Dance Programme Leader. This path reflects not only a broadening of responsibilities, such as supervising teams and events, but also a deepening in scope, as he has expanded into areas of youth development and creative education in prestigious organizations. This growth demonstrates his capacity for advancement in the educational and fitness sectors.
- Innovative Curriculum Design - A standout feature is George's prowess in creating impactful curricula. He has developed unique dance curriculums focusing on character education and fitness programs that integrate into school curriculums. This ability to design comprehensive educational experiences highlights his strategic approach and suggests a high level of industry-specific technical knowledge which is invaluable for the role of a Dance Programme Leader.
- Achievements with Broad Impact - The CV effectively showcases achievements that go beyond mere numbers; it highlights initiatives that have produced a wide-reaching positive impact on institutions and students. For instance, his mentoring program has improved staff retention by 30%, and his fitness programs have impacted over 500 students annually. These successes reflect an ability to create enduring changes that benefit not only the immediate stakeholders but also the wider community.
Dance Company Artistic Director
- Comprehensive Structure and Clarity - The CV is well-structured, following a logical flow that guides the reader through the candidate's professional journey. Key sections such as experience, education, skills, and achievements are distinctly presented, making it easy for potential employers to quickly grasp Ruby Gibson’s capabilities and career path.
- Progressive Career Development - Ruby Gibson's career trajectory highlights significant growth from a Dance Choreographer to a Ballet Director within relatively short periods. This upward movement within prestigious institutions showcases her ability to advance quickly, reflecting positively on her skills, ambition, and recognition in the dance industry.
- Innovative Methodologies and Technical Depth - The CV emphasizes unique industry-specific elements, such as the implementation of novel choreographic techniques that measurably improved student outcomes. It also mentions cross-school collaborations and studio management, indicating a solid grasp of diverse methodologies aimed at enhancing both technical and artistic skills in dance education.
Dance Company Technical Director
- Comprehensive Career Trajectory - Lucas Adams' CV reflects a robust career progression within the theatre industry, moving from an Assistant Technical Director to a Scenic Designer and eventually to a Technical Director. This upward trajectory signifies his growing expertise and leadership in the field, demonstrating his ability to take on increasing responsibilities and deliver successful outcomes across major theatre companies like the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre.
- Emphasis on Leadership and Mentorship - The CV emphasizes Lucas' commitment to leadership and developing others. His role in implementing hands-on training programs for interns and creating practical learning modules for students indicates a strong focus on mentorship. This not only boosts his credibility as a leader but also highlights his ability to foster skill development among aspiring theatre professionals.
- Integration of Industry-Specific Skills - The CV highlights Lucas' proficiency with vital theatre production tools and techniques, such as advanced lighting and sound systems. His innovative approach is evident in his spearheading of state-of-the-art system integrations, supporting sustainable practices, and developing interactive set elements, which serve to enhance audience engagement and set him apart in the creative arts field.
Dance Festival Organiser
- Effective Presentation of Professional Growth - The CV clearly articulates Thomas Walker's career progression, showcasing a well-defined trajectory from a Community Engagement Officer to a Senior Events Coordinator. This highlights not only his ability to advance within the nonprofit sector but also his increasing responsibility over time, which demonstrates trust and respect from employers in his capabilities.
- Leadership and Volunteer Management - A significant aspect of Walker's CV is his demonstrated leadership in managing teams and volunteers. The CV emphasizes his success in implementing training programs that increased volunteer retention by 30% and leading teams in executing community events that garnered record attendance, illustrating his effectiveness in cultivating motivated teams and fostering a positive volunteer environment.
- Impactful Achievements with Business Relevance - Thomas Walker’s achievements section offers more than just numbers; it provides context and demonstrates the broader business impact of his efforts. For instance, coordinating fundraising events that exceeded targets by raising over £100,000 not only signifies financial success but also reinforces his strategic planning and execution capabilities in generating substantial community support and donations.
Dance Company Rehearsal Director
- Structured and Detailed Presentation - Arthur Davies' CV is presented with clarity and structure, making it easy for potential employers to navigate. The clear sections including experience, education, skills, courses, and achievements enable a concise and comprehensive view of his professional journey, while the language is polished and succinctly captures his career highlights.
- Consistent Career Growth and Versatility - The CV effectively showcases Arthur’s career progression from a Senior Dance Instructor to a Director of Dance Programs, reflecting his consistent growth and rising responsibility within the realm of dance management. This trajectory underscores his ability to adapt and excel in his field, transitioning smoothly between different leadership roles and locations while maintaining his focus on dance and performance arts.
- Impactful Achievements with Real Business Relevance - Arthur's accomplishments are underscored by their tangible impact, such as increasing enrollment by 30% and cutting operational costs by 15%. These not only highlight his ability to drive growth but also demonstrate a keen understanding of strategic business operations. His achievements are presented with emphasis on the outcomes, reflecting their relevance and advantageous impact on the organizations he has been a part of.
Dance Outreach Officer
- Strategic Content Leadership - Freddie Hughes demonstrates impressive leadership in the field of content marketing, with roles that showcase a clear progression to senior positions where they manage teams and lead impactful projects. The CV shows a proactive approach to fostering team development through initiatives like mentorship programs, highlighting leadership and investment in nurturing talent.
- Effective Cross-Departmental Collaborations - The document outlines strong cross-functional experience, emphasizing Hughes' ability to manage and streamline processes across different departments. By collaborating with various stakeholders, including authors, editors, and digital teams, Hughes efficiently aligns content strategies with company objectives, underscoring adaptability and strong interpersonal skills.
- Robust Analytical Methodologies - The CV showcases a strong use of data-driven methodologies that enhance strategic planning and content performance. Hughes employs tools such as Google Analytics to track content success and make informed decisions, demonstrating technical acumen and the ability to translate data into actionable business insights.
Dance Company Executive Director
- Structured Presentation with Clear Sections - This CV's organization is exemplary, starting with a comprehensive header, followed by clearly delineated sections such as experience, education, skills, and achievements. Each section is concise and well-structured, making it easy for readers to follow the candidate's career journey and expertise in the arts sector.
- Strong Career Advancement in Arts Engagement - Daniel Baker’s career trajectory shows a clear path of growth from Arts Outreach Coordinator to Director of Audiences and Impact. This progression highlights his ability to take on increased responsibility and effectively drive audience development strategies in prestigious arts organizations.
- Innovative and Inclusive Approaches - The CV underscores Baker's skill in utilizing strategic insights and innovative outreach methods to increase audience reach and diversity. His efforts in spearheading a cross-departmental initiative that expanded audience diversity by 30% highlight his commitment to fostering inclusivity within arts environments.
How complex should the format of your dance CV be?
Perhaps, you decided to use a fancy font and plenty of colours to ensure your dance CV stands out amongst the pile of other candidate profiles. Alas - this may confuse recruiters. By keeping your format simple and organising your information coherently, you'll ultimately make a better impression. What matters most is your experience, while your CV format should act as complementary thing by:
- Presenting the information in a reverse chronological order with the most recent of your jobs first. This is done so that your career history stays organised and is aligned to the role;
- Making it easy for recruiters to get in touch with you by including your contact details in the CV header. Regarding the design of your CV header, include plenty of white space and icons to draw attention to your information. If you're applying for roles in the UK, don't include a photo, as this is considered a bad practice;
- Organising your most important CV sections with consistent colours, plenty of white space, and appropriate margins (2.54 cm). Remember that your CV design should always aim at legibility and to spotlight your key information;
- Writing no more than two pages of your relevant experience. For candidates who are just starting out in the field, we recommend to have an one-page CV.
One more thing about your CV format - you may be worried if your double column CV is Applicant Tracker System (ATS) complaint. In our recent study, we discovered that both single and double-column CVs are ATS-friendly . Most ATSes out there can also read all serif and sans serif fonts. We suggest you go with modern, yet simple, fonts (e.g. Rubik, Lato, Raleway) instead of the classic Times New Roman. You'll want your application to stand out, and many candidates still go for the classics. Finally, you'll have to export your CV. If you're wondering if you should select Doc or PDF, we always advise going with PDF. Your CV in PDF will stay intact and opens easily on every OS, including Mac OS.
PRO TIP
For certain fields, consider including infographics or visual elements to represent skills or achievements, but ensure they are simple, professional, and enhance rather than clutter the information.
The top sections on a dance CV
- Personal Information includes your contact details.
- Dance Training outlines your formal dance education.
- Performance Experience showcases your stage involvement.
- Dance Styles highlights the genres you are skilled in.
- Achievements & Awards recognises notable dance accomplishments.
What recruiters value on your CV:
- Highlight your technical skills and styles of dance, mentioning any specialisations like ballet, contemporary, or hip hop to showcase your versatility and expertise in the field.
- Detail your performance experience, including the names of productions, choreographers you've worked with, and the venues where you've performed, to underscore your professional background.
- Include any choreographic or teaching experience, as these skills demonstrate leadership, creativity, and a deepened understanding of dance that's valuable for collaborative projects.
- Emphasise your physical fitness and any cross-training you participate in, as this indicates your commitment to maintaining peak performance condition as a professional dancer.
- Integrate reviews or quotes from directors, instructors, or critics when relevant, as third-party endorsements can add credibility to your professional standing in the dance community.
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Tips and tricks on writing a job-winning dance CV header
The CV header is the space which most recruiters would be referring most often to, in the beginning and end of your application. That is as the CV header includes your contact details, but also a headline and a professional photo. When writing your CV header:
- Double-check your contact details for spelling errors or if you've missed any digits. Also, ensure you've provided your personal details, and not your current work email or telephone number;
- Include your location in the form of the city and country you live in. If you want to be more detailed, you can list your full address to show proximity to your potential work place;
- Don't include your CV photo, if you're applying for roles in the UK or US, as this may bias initial recruiters' assessments;
- Write a professional headline that either integrates the job title, some relevant industry keywords, or your most noteworthy achievement.
In the next part of our guide, we'll provide you with professional CVs that showcase some of the best practices when it comes to writing your headline.
Examples of good CV headlines for dance:
- Principal Ballet Dancer | Vaganova Trained | Choreography | Dance Education | 10 Years' Experience
- Contemporary Dance Performer | Improvisation Specialist | Movement Direction | BTEC Certified | 5+ Years Professional
- Senior Jazz Dancer | West End Experience | Dance Captain | Fitness Coordination | 15 Years On Stage
- Hip-Hop Dance Instructor | Urban Choreography | Workshop Leader | Youth Dance Development | 7 Years Teaching
- Tap Dance Artist | National Tours | Ensemble Coordination | Rhythm Technique Expert | 12-Year Stage Presence
- Modern Dance Choreographer | Dance Company Founder | Movement Analysis | MA Dance | 20 Years Industry Leader
Catching recruiters' attention with your dance CV summary or objective
Located closer to the top of your CV, both the summary and objective are no more than five sentences long and serve as an introduction to your experience. What is more, you could use either to entice recruiters to read on. Select the:
- Summary, if you happen to have plenty of relevant experience. Feature your most impressive accomplishments and up to three skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for;
- Objective, if you're just starting your career off. Provide your career goals and answer how you see the role you are applying for will match your professional growth.
Judging which one you need to add to your dance CV may at times seem difficult. That’s why you need to check out how professionals, with similar to your experience, have written their summary or objective, in the examples below:
CV summaries for a dance job:
- Seasoned ballet dancer boasting over 15 years of classical training and experience with renowned global dance companies, having performed in over 50 productions. Expertise in choreography, possessing a refined technical skill set, and celebrated for a principal role in a critically acclaimed rendition of Swan Lake.
- Dynamic contemporary dancer and choreographer with a decade of immersion in the performing arts, dedicating 8 years to touring with a cutting-edge dance troupe. Noteworthy for original choreography showcased at the International Dance Festival, combining modern aesthetics with traditional movements.
- Multi-faceted graphic designer eagerly transitioning to professional dance, bringing 7 years of disciplined, creative campaign work for major advertising agencies. A ceaseless passion for dance, having trained consistently in jazz and modern styles whilst crafting a successful design career.
- Driven software engineer with an impressive 12-year tenure pioneering mobile applications, seeking a profound career change into the dance industry. An ardent devotee of salsa and ballroom dancing, actively participating and winning in regional competitions whilst excelling in technology.
- Eager to embrace the world of dance as a fresh canvas, armed with boundless enthusiasm and an unwavering commitment to mastering the art form. Dedicated to rigorous training and learning, aspiring to contribute creative vitality to the dance ensemble with a novel perspective from a non-traditional background.
- Embarking on a journey into dance with no prior professional experience but fueled by an intense passion for performance arts. Aim to leverage a quick learning ability and innate musicality to excel in dance, while embracing the collaborative spirit and artistic expression synonymous with the field.
More detailed look into your work history: best advice on writing your dance CV experience section
The CV experience is a space not just to merely list your past roles and responsibilities. It is the CV real estate within which you could detail your greatest accomplishments and skills, while matching the job requirements. Here's what to have in your experience section:
- Prove you have what the job wants with your unique skill set and past successes;
- Start each bullet with a strong, action verb, and continue with the outcome of your responsibility;
- Use any awards, nominations, and recognitions you've received as solid proof of your skill set and expertise;
- align your experience with the role responsibilities and duties.
For more help on how to write your CV experience section, check out the next section of our guide:
Best practices for your CV's work experience section
- List the most impressive or relevant dance experience first, placing emphasis on performances, competitions, and roles that showcase your versatility and skill level.
- Specify the style of dance for each performance or job to highlight your expertise in particular genres such as ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, or folk dance.
- Include notable choreographers or dance companies you have worked with, as collaborations with respected professionals can enhance your CV's credibility.
- Mention any lead roles or solos you have performed to showcase your ability to carry significant responsibilities within a production.
- Highlight your experience with diverse dance environments, such as stage shows, music videos, festivals, and corporate events to demonstrate adaptability.
- Include dates and durations of performances and tours to give employers a sense of your commitment and career progression.
- Detail significant training and workshops you've attended, focusing on how these have developed your technique, expression, and performance skills.
- Outline any experience you may have in other aspects of dance production, including choreography, teaching, or mentoring others.
- Quantify achievements when possible, such as the number of performances in a role, the size of audiences you've entertained, or awards won.
Work Experience
Lead Choreographer
DanceWorks London
02/2015-03/2019
- Choreographed and led 20+ contemporary dance routines for the annual showcase with positive reviews and a 30% increase in community engagement.
- Designed and facilitated a dancer development programme, resulting in 5 dancers progressing to professional contracts with renowned companies.
- Liaised with local schools to implement a dance outreach programme, engaging over 200 students in the first year and expanding the company's reach.
Work Experience
Dance Programme Director
The Dance Centre
06/2012-07/2014
- Developed a unique dance curriculum that was adopted by 4 major dance studios in the region, increasing their student retention rate by 25%.
- Organised and directed a multinational dance festival, featuring over 100 dancers and attracting an audience of 5000+ attendees.
- Managed a team of 10 dancers and staff, fostering a collaborative environment and achieving a 95% satisfaction rate among team members.
Work Experience
Innovative Dance Practitioner
VR Dance Collective
01/2017-Ongoing
- Directed the integration of cutting-edge motion capture technology, enhancing performance quality and audience experience for the flagship contemporary dance productions.
- Secured £150,000 in funding for a virtual reality dance project collaboration with tech companies, providing immersive experiences to the audience.
- Established a comprehensive dancer wellness and injury prevention protocol, reducing dancer injuries by 40% over a two-year period.
Work Experience
Dance Performance Specialist
Elite Performers Ballet Company
04/2010-08/2015
- Tailored and executed personalised dance training programmes for elite performers, with clients achieving top awards at international competitions.
- Implemented a cutting-edge fitness and conditioning programme that improved company dancers' stamina and performance endurance by 50%.
- Collaborated with costume designers and music directors to create a cohesive production style, enhancing the visual and auditory experience for audiences.
Work Experience
Dance Initiative Founder
Fusion Dance Theatre
09/2009-05/2013
- Launched a multi-disciplinary dance initiative, bridging the gap between dance genres and fostering innovative performances shown across the UK.
- Trained and mentored a diverse company of 25+ dancers, delivering performances noted for technical excellence and emotive expression.
- Negotiated successful partnerships with local businesses, securing venues and sponsorship deals that increased the company's financial stability by 20%.
Work Experience
Dance School Administrator
Step Up Dance Academy
05/2013-12/2017
- Orchestrated the successful merger of two dance schools, expanding class offerings and increasing overall student enrollment by 35% within one year.
- Created and executed a strategic marketing plan that utilised social media, resulting in a 50% increase in online engagement and ticket sales for performances.
- Cultivated a partnership with a national dancewear brand, enhancing the school's visibility and providing students with high-quality attire at a discounted rate.
Work Experience
Dance Technologist
Dance Innovations Inc.
03/2017-04/2021
- Pioneered a digital dance platform, allowing for remote learning and live streaming of performances, which reached an international audience of 10,000+ viewers.
- Founded an annual dance technology symposium, bringing together industry leaders to discuss and advance the integration of technology in dance.
- Led a team of developers and dancers to create an award-winning dance app, enhancing home practice for dancers and resulting in over 20,000 downloads in the first year.
Work Experience
Dance Consultant & Casting Director
Stage & Screen Choreography Ltd.
09/2019-Ongoing
- Provided expert dance consultation for television and film projects, ensuring accurate portrayal of dance sequences viewed by millions worldwide.
- Coordinated the talent scouting and casting of dancers for 5 major productions, critically acclaimed for their dynamic and skilled dance ensembles.
- Developed a dance education program for the film crew and actors enabling a deeper understanding of dance, contributing to the authenticity of the film projects.
Lacking professional expertise: how to write your CV to highlight your best talents
Don't count on your lucky stars when you're applying for a role, where you happen to have less (or almost none) professional experience. Recruiters sometimes do hire inexperienced candidates if they're able to present their unique value from the get-go. So, instead of opting for the traditional, CV experience section:
- List any applicable expertise you happen to have - no matter if it's a part-time job, internship, or volunteer work. This would hint to recruiters that your profile is relevant;
- Focus your CV on your transferrable skills or talents you've obtained thanks to your whole life and work experience. In effect, you'll be spotlighting your value as a candidate;
- Separate more space for your applicable academic background and certificates to show you have the technical know-how;
- Ensure that within your objective, you've defined why you'll like the job and how you'll be the perfect match for it. Always ensure you've tailored your CV to individual applications.
Looking for more good examples for your first job? We'll show you how other candidates, with less professional experience, have created their job-winning CVs.
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PRO TIP
Include examples of how you adapted to new tools, environments, or work cultures, showing your flexibility.
The CV skills' divide: between hard and soft skills
Of course, you may have read the job requirements plenty of times now, but it's key to note that there is a difference between technical and personal skills. Both are equally relevant to your job application. When writing about your skill set, ensure you've copy-pasted the precise skill from the job requirement. This would not only help you ensure you have the correct spelling, but also pass any Applicant Tracker System (ATS) assessments.
- Hard skills show your technological capabilities. Or whether you'll be a good technical fit to the organisation. Ensure you've spotlighted your hard skills in various sections of your CV (e.g. skills section, projects, experience) by including the technology and what you've attained;
- Soft skills pinpoint your personality and people or communication skills, hinting at if you'll easily accomodate into the team or organisation. Quantify your soft skills in your CV achievements, strengths, summary/objective, and experience sections. Always support your soft skills with how they've helped you grow as a professional.
Top skills for your dance CV:
HARD SKILLS
Classical Ballet Technique
Modern Dance Technique
Jazz Dance Technique
Hip-Hop Dance
Choreography and Composition
Improvisation Skills
Dance Notation and Literacy
Pointe Work
Partnering and Lifts
Dance Pedagogy
SOFT SKILLS
Creativity
Physical Fitness and Stamina
Interpersonal Skills
Teamwork
Adaptability
Time Management
Self-discipline
Attention to Detail
Performance Skills
Resilience
PRO TIP
If there's a noticeable gap in your skillset for the role you're applying for, mention any steps you're taking to acquire these skills, such as online courses or self-study.
Listing your university education and certificates on your dance CV
The best proof of your technical capabilities would be your education and certifications sections. Your education should list all of your relevant university degrees, followed up by their start and completion dates. Make sure to also include the name of the university/-ies you graduated from. If you happen to have less professional experience (or you deem it would be impressive and relevant to your application), spotlight in the education section:
- that you were awarded a "First" degree;
- industry-specific coursework and projects;
- extracurricular clubs, societies, and activities.
When selecting your certificates, first ask yourself how applicable they'd be to the role. Ater your initial assessment, write the certificate and institution name. Don't miss out on including the completion date. In the below panel, we've curated relevant examples of industry-leading certificates.
PRO TIP
If you have received professional endorsements or recommendations for certain skills, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, mention these to add credibility.
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Key takeaways
What matters most in your dance CV-writing process is for you to create a personalised application. One that matches the role and also showcases your unique qualities and talents.
- Use the format to supplement the actual content, to stand out, and to ensure your CV experience is easy to comprehend and follows a logic;
- Invest time in building a succinct CV top one third. One that includes a header (with your contact details and headline), a summary or an objective statement (select the one that best fits your experience), and - potentially - a dedicated skills section or achievements (to fit both hard skills and soft skills requirements);
- Prioritise your most relevant (and senior) experience closer to the top of your CV. Always ensure you're following the "power verb, skill, and achievement" format for your bullets;
- Integrate both your technical and communication background across different sections of your CV to meet the job requirements;
- List your relevant education and certificates to fill in gaps in your CV history and prove to recrutiers you have relevant technical know-how.
