Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting out, interviews are an inevitable part of your dance career. Whether you’re auditioning for a dance company, applying for a teaching position, or seeking a scholarship, the interview process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of 15 common dance interview questions and provided tips on how to answer them effectively.
What to Expect in a Dance Interview
Before we delve into the specific questions, let’s first discuss what you can generally expect in a dance interview. Whether it’s an in-person interview or a virtual one, the purpose of the interview is for the interviewer to assess your suitability for the role or opportunity. They want to gauge not only your technical skills but also your professionalism, passion, and ability to work well with others.
During the interview, you may be asked about your dance background, training, and experience. The interviewer may also inquire about your goals, aspirations, and how you handle challenges. It’s important to be prepared to discuss these topics openly and honestly, while also showcasing your unique qualities as a dancer.
15 Common Interview Questions for Dancers
1. Can you tell us about your dance background and training?
When asked this question, highlight your dance training, including any notable schools or teachers you’ve studied with. Mention any styles or techniques you specialize in, as well as any performances or competitions you’ve participated in. It’s also a good idea to discuss any additional training or certifications you may have, such as teaching qualifications or injury prevention courses.
2. What inspired you to pursue a career in dance?
This question allows you to share your passion for dance. Talk about the moment or experience that ignited your love for dance and how it has shaped your life since then. Be genuine and convey your enthusiasm for the art form, as this will help the interviewer see your dedication and commitment.
3. How do you prepare for a performance or audition?
Use this question to showcase your organizational and preparation skills. Discuss your warm-up routine, how you mentally prepare, and any specific rituals or techniques you use to get into the right mindset. Emphasize the importance of practice and rehearsal in your preparation process.
4. Can you tell us about a challenging dance routine or performance you’ve been a part of?
When answering this question, choose a specific example that demonstrates your ability to overcome obstacles and handle pressure. Discuss how you approached the challenge, what you learned from it, and how it ultimately made you a stronger dancer. Highlight any teamwork or problem-solving skills you utilized during this experience.
5. How do you handle criticism or feedback?
This question is an opportunity to showcase your openness to growth and improvement. Talk about how you actively seek feedback and view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Mention any instances where you received constructive criticism and how you implemented the feedback to enhance your performance.
6. How do you stay motivated and inspired as a dancer?
Share your strategies for maintaining motivation and inspiration in your dance career. Discuss how you seek out new challenges, set goals for yourself, and find inspiration from other dancers or performances. Highlight any moments in your career where you felt particularly motivated and the impact it had on your dancing.
7. How do you handle working in a team or ensemble?
Working in a team or ensemble is a crucial aspect of dance, so it’s important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Talk about your communication skills, willingness to compromise, and ability to adapt to different working styles. Share any experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team and the importance of trust and respect in a collaborative environment.
8. How do you handle stage fright or performance anxiety?
Stage fright is something many dancers experience, so it’s important to address how you manage it. Discuss any techniques or strategies you use to calm your nerves before a performance, such as deep breathing or visualization exercises. Share any experiences where you successfully overcame performance anxiety and delivered a memorable performance.
9. Can you tell us about a time when you had to make a quick decision or change during a performance?
This question assesses your ability to think on your feet and adapt to unexpected situations. Share a specific instance where you had to make a quick decision or adjust your performance due to a mishap or technical difficulty. Discuss how you handled the situation calmly and professionally, ensuring the show went on without major disruptions.
10. How do you balance your dance career with other commitments or responsibilities?
Many dancers have to juggle multiple commitments, such as school, work, or family responsibilities. Discuss your time management skills and how you prioritize your various commitments. Share any strategies or techniques you use to maintain a healthy work-life balance and ensure you can fully dedicate yourself to your dance career.
11. Can you tell us about a time when you faced rejection or disappointment in your dance career?
Rejection is a common part of a dancer’s journey, so it’s important to demonstrate resilience and perseverance. Choose a specific example where you faced rejection or disappointment, such as not getting a role or not being accepted into a program. Discuss how you handled the situation, what you learned from it, and how it motivated you to work harder and prove yourself.
12. How do you keep up with current trends and developments in the dance industry?
The dance industry is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay informed about current trends and developments. Talk about how you actively seek out new choreographers, attend workshops or masterclasses, and engage with dance communities online. Share any instances where you incorporated new techniques or styles into your repertoire to showcase your adaptability.
13. How do you handle injuries and take care of your physical well-being?
Dancers are prone to injuries, so it’s crucial to discuss how you prioritize your physical well-being. Talk about any injury prevention techniques you use, such as cross-training or regular stretching and strengthening exercises. Share any experiences where you successfully recovered from an injury and how it taught you the importance of self-care.
14. Can you tell us about a memorable performance or achievement in your dance career?
Choose a performance or achievement that holds significant meaning to you and showcases your talent and growth as a dancer. Discuss why this particular experience stands out for you and the impact it had on your career. Share any feedback or recognition you received for this performance to highlight your accomplishments.
15. Why do you think you would be a good fit for our dance company/school/opportunity?
Use this question as an opportunity to highlight your unique qualities and how they align with the values and goals of the organization or opportunity you’re applying for. Discuss why you resonate with their mission or artistic vision and how your skills and experience would contribute to their success. Share any specific ideas or contributions you would bring to the table.
Preparing for Your Dance Interview
Now that you’re familiar with some common dance interview questions, it’s time to start preparing. Here are a few additional tips to help you make a great impression:
- Research the organization or opportunity: Familiarize yourself with the company, school, or opportunity you’re interviewing for. Understand their artistic style, repertoire, and any recent performances or achievements.
- Practice your answers: Rehearse your responses to the interview questions mentioned above. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to ensure you come across as confident and articulate.
- Dress professionally: Dress appropriately for the interview, reflecting the level of formality expected in the dance industry. Pay attention to grooming, posture, and body language.
- Bring your dance portfolio: Prepare a portfolio showcasing your dance experience, including headshots, performance photos, and any relevant certifications or achievements. This will help the interviewer visualize your skills and accomplishments.
- Prepare questions: Come prepared with thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the opportunity and allows you to gather more information about the role or organization.
- Be yourself: While it’s important to present yourself professionally, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Be authentic, enthusiastic, and passionate about dance.
Remember, interviews are not only an opportunity for the interviewer to assess you, but also for you to evaluate whether the organization or opportunity is the right fit for you. Approach the interview with confidence, prepare thoroughly, and showcase your unique qualities as a dancer. Good luck!
