25 Dancer Interview Questions and Answers

Dancers are the athletes of the performing arts. They must be in top physical condition to withstand the rigors of dance training and performing. Dancers must also be able to learn and memorize choreography quickly.

Dancers typically start their careers by auditioning for dance companies. If you are a dancer, you will likely be asked to attend an audition and may be asked to interview with the company’s artistic staff. Chances are you will be asked to perform a dance audition and may also be asked to answer some questions about your dance training, experience, and goals.

In this guide, we will provide you with some tips on how to prepare for a dance audition and how to answer common interview questions.

1. Are you comfortable performing in front of a camera?

Cameras are often present at auditions, so it’s important that you’re comfortable with the process. This question is your chance to show the hiring manager how well you can perform in front of a camera and what steps you take to prepare for an audition.

Example: “Absolutely! I have been performing in front of a camera for many years now. As a professional dancer, I understand the importance of being able to perform well on camera and I am confident that I can do so. I have had experience with both live performances and pre-recorded videos, so I am comfortable with either format. I also enjoy the challenge of creating something unique and memorable for an audience to watch. My goal is always to make sure that my performance is engaging and entertaining.”

2. What are some of your favorite dance styles?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a dancer and your interests. It also helps them understand what kind of dance style they might expect from you if you’re hired. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention styles that are similar to the one you’re applying for.

Example: “I have a passion for all types of dance, but my favorite styles are contemporary and hip-hop. Contemporary is an expressive form of dance that allows me to explore the depths of emotion through movement. I love the challenge of creating unique combinations and exploring the boundaries of what’s possible with this style. Hip-hop is another style I enjoy because it requires creativity and energy. It’s always exciting to create new routines and find ways to make them fresh and interesting. Both of these styles allow me to express myself in different ways and push my skills as a dancer.”

3. How would you describe your personal style of dance?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your dance style and how it fits with their company’s culture. Your answer should include an example of a type of dance you enjoy performing, such as ballet or hip-hop, and what makes it appealing to you.

Example: “My personal style of dance is a combination of modern and classical techniques. I have trained in both contemporary and ballet styles, which gives me the flexibility to adapt my dancing to different types of music or choreography. I enjoy exploring new ways to express myself through movement and am always looking for creative solutions to challenges that arise during rehearsals or performances. My style is characterized by strong technique, dynamic energy, and an attention to detail. I strive to bring emotion and passion into every performance, while still maintaining control and precision. I believe that this combination of technical skill and artistic expression makes me a unique dancer who can contribute to any ensemble.”

4. What is your favorite part of performing?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a dancer and learn more about your interests. Your answer can also give them insight into what kind of performance opportunities you might enjoy if you were hired for this role. Consider mentioning something that is unique or specific to your experience, such as an audience member who inspired you or a costume you enjoyed wearing.

Example: “My favorite part of performing is the feeling of accomplishment I get when I complete a routine. There’s nothing quite like the rush of adrenaline and pride that comes with nailing a difficult move or executing a complex combination. It’s an incredible feeling to know that all my hard work has paid off, and it motivates me to keep pushing myself and striving for excellence in every performance.

I also love the connection I make with the audience during a show. When I’m dancing, I’m able to express so much emotion and energy through movement, and it’s amazing to see how people respond to it. Being able to bring joy to others through my art is something that really drives me as a dancer.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to learn a new dance routine quickly.

This question can help an interviewer determine your ability to adapt to new situations. Use examples from previous jobs or experiences that highlight your flexibility and willingness to learn.

Example: “I recently had to learn a new dance routine quickly for an upcoming performance. I was given the choreography and music just two days before the show, which meant that I had to work hard and fast in order to master it.

To get up to speed, I broke down the routine into smaller sections and practiced each one separately until I felt confident enough to move on to the next part. I also watched videos of other dancers performing the same routine to get a better understanding of how it should look. Finally, I worked with my instructor to refine any areas where I needed help.

By the time the performance came around, I was able to confidently execute the entire routine without any mistakes. It was a great feeling to know that all my hard work paid off and I was proud to be able to showcase my skills on stage.”

6. If a choreographer gave you a dance move that you didn’t understand, how would you ask for clarification?

This question can help an interviewer determine how you interact with your team. It’s important to show that you are willing to ask questions and learn from others when necessary.

Example: “I understand the importance of being able to accurately execute a choreographer’s vision. If I was given a dance move that I didn’t understand, I would first try to break it down and figure out what the individual steps are. However, if I still couldn’t make sense of it, I wouldn’t hesitate to ask for clarification. I believe in open communication with my choreographers so that we can work together to create something beautiful. I would explain the move as best as I could and then ask questions to get further clarification on how they want it executed. This way, I can ensure that I am delivering their desired outcome.”

7. What would you do if you were performing in a show and realized you were doing the dance moves wrong?

This question can help an interviewer determine how you respond to mistakes and whether you have the ability to learn from them. Use your answer to show that you are willing to take responsibility for your actions, apologize when necessary and make efforts to improve.

Example: “If I were performing in a show and realized I was doing the dance moves wrong, I would take immediate action to correct my mistakes. First, I would pause and review the choreography in my mind to make sure I had it right. If I still felt unsure, I would ask for help from the choreographer or other dancers in the group. Once I had the steps down correctly, I would practice them until I felt confident that I could execute them perfectly during the performance. Finally, I would focus on staying present and connected with the music and the audience so that I could deliver an engaging and entertaining performance.”

8. How well do you follow choreography?

This question is a great way to assess your ability to follow directions and work as part of a team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention how you have developed your skills in following choreography over time.

Example: “I am an experienced dancer and have been following choreography for many years. I have a strong ability to pick up new movements quickly and accurately, as well as retain them over time. My experience has taught me how to interpret the nuances of different styles of dance, allowing me to easily adapt to any choreography given.

I also understand the importance of precision in dancing, which is why I take great care to ensure that my technique is always on point. I strive to be consistent with each step and movement so that the overall performance looks polished and professional.”

9. Do you prefer performing in front of an audience or in front of a camera?

This question can help an interviewer determine whether you would be a good fit for their company. They may want to know if you prefer performing in front of a live audience or on camera, and they may also want to know why. You can answer this question by explaining which type of performance you enjoy more and why.

Example: “I love performing in both settings. When I’m on stage, I get to experience the energy of a live audience and feed off their enthusiasm. It’s an amazing feeling when you can feel the crowd connecting with your performance. On the other hand, I also enjoy performing for the camera because it allows me to focus more on perfecting my technique and really hone in on the details of each movement. Ultimately, I believe that each setting has its own unique advantages and I am comfortable working in either one.”

10. When performing, do you prefer to be in a group or solo?

This question can help an interviewer determine if you prefer to work alone or with a team. It can also show them how well you communicate and collaborate with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention that you enjoy both solo and group performances.

Example: “I enjoy both group and solo performances. When I’m in a group, I love the energy that comes from working together with other dancers to create something special. It’s amazing how each person brings their own unique style and skills to the table, which helps us come up with creative ideas for our choreography. On the other hand, when I’m performing solo, I really appreciate having the freedom to express myself without worrying about fitting into someone else’s vision. I also like being able to focus on my technique and work on perfecting my movements. Ultimately, I believe it depends on the project and what works best for the team.”

11. We want our dancers to be able to improvise. How would you use improvisation in your dance performances?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your creativity and problem-solving skills to create unique dance performances. Use examples from past experiences where you used improvisation in a positive way, such as when you created new steps or added elements to a performance that weren’t planned ahead of time.

Example: “I have been a dancer for many years, and I believe improvisation is an essential part of any performance. When I’m dancing, I like to use improvisation as a way to express myself and explore different movements that may not be part of the choreography. For example, I might add in some unexpected turns or lifts that weren’t planned, but they can help to create a more dynamic and interesting performance. Improvisation also allows me to connect with my audience on a deeper level, as I’m able to respond to their energy and reactions in real time. Finally, it helps keep my performances fresh and exciting, since no two shows will ever be exactly the same.”

12. Describe your process for memorizing choreography.

This question can help the interviewer understand your work ethic and how you approach memorizing choreography. Use examples from past experiences to describe your process for learning new dance routines, including how you stay organized and focused on the task at hand.

Example: “My process for memorizing choreography starts with breaking down the routine into small sections. I find that this helps me to focus on each part of the dance and understand it better. After I have broken down the routine, I practice each section separately until I am comfortable with it. Once I can do the whole routine without any mistakes, I start practicing it with music. This allows me to get used to the timing and rhythm of the routine. Finally, I practice the entire routine multiple times in order to commit it to memory.

I believe that my methodical approach to learning choreography is one of my greatest strengths as a dancer. It has allowed me to quickly learn complex routines and perform them confidently.”

13. What makes you stand out as a dancer?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a dancer and how your skills, personality and background make you unique. Use this opportunity to share what makes you passionate about dance and why you are excited to be applying for this position.

Example: “I believe I stand out as a dancer because of my passion and dedication to the art form. I have been dancing since I was a child, and it has always been something that I am passionate about. As an adult, I continue to take classes and workshops to stay up-to-date on new techniques and styles. My experience in different dance genres allows me to bring a unique perspective to any performance or choreography project.

In addition, I strive for excellence in all aspects of my work. I’m constantly challenging myself to push boundaries and explore new ways of expressing movement. I also make sure to practice regularly so that I can maintain my technique and stay sharp. Finally, I’m highly organized and reliable when it comes to rehearsals and performances. I understand how important it is to be prepared and professional at all times.”

14. Which dance styles are you still working to improve?

This question can give the interviewer insight into your work ethic and willingness to improve. It also shows that you are self-aware, which is an important skill for any dancer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific dance style or two that you would like to learn more about.

Example: “I am a highly experienced dancer, but I’m always looking for ways to improve my technique. I have been trained in many different dance styles such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and tap. I am currently focusing on honing my skills in these areas, while also exploring new styles like Latin and African dance.

I take classes regularly to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques. I also attend workshops and seminars to learn from other professional dancers and gain insight into their creative processes. This helps me to refine my own style and become more versatile in my dancing.”

15. What do you think is the most important skill for a dancer to have?

This question can help an interviewer determine what skills you value most in a dancer. Use your answer to highlight the skill that you feel is most important and why it’s so valuable. You may also want to mention any other skills that are important to you as well.

Example: “I believe the most important skill for a dancer to have is creativity. As a dancer, you need to be able to create and express yourself through movement. It’s not just about learning steps or memorizing choreography; it’s also about being able to interpret music and use your body to tell a story. Creativity allows dancers to explore different styles and techniques, as well as come up with new ideas that can help them stand out from other dancers.

In addition to creativity, I think having strong technique is essential for any dancer. Having good technique ensures that movements are executed correctly and safely, which is especially important when performing in front of an audience. Knowing how to properly execute turns, jumps, and lifts will give a dancer confidence and make their performance look more polished.”

16. How often do you practice your dance moves?

This question can help the interviewer determine how dedicated you are to your craft. They may also want to know if you have any special skills or talents that make you a unique candidate for the job. Use this opportunity to show off your dance moves and explain why they’re important to you.

Example: “I practice my dance moves every day. I believe that consistency and dedication are key to becoming a great dancer, so I make sure to set aside time each day to work on my technique. During this time, I focus on mastering new steps and perfecting existing ones. I also use this time to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry and learn new choreography.

In addition to practicing daily, I also take classes at least once a week. This helps me stay sharp and motivated as I’m constantly learning from experienced instructors and other dancers. Taking classes also allows me to network and gain insight into different styles of dance.”

17. There is a new dance style that you’re interested in learning. How would you go about finding a teacher or class for this style?

This question can help an interviewer understand your research skills and how you would find information about a new dance style. Use examples from past experiences to show the interviewer that you are willing to learn new styles of dance.

Example: “I am an experienced dancer and I’m always looking for new ways to challenge myself. When it comes to learning a new dance style, my approach is to do thorough research on the internet first. This includes reading up on the history of the dance style, watching videos of professional dancers performing it, and finding out what classes or teachers are available in my area.

Once I have gathered enough information, I will reach out to the teachers or studios that offer this particular dance style. I like to ask questions about their teaching methods, class size, and any other details that could help me make an informed decision. Finally, I would attend a few classes before committing to one teacher or studio. This way, I can get a feel for the atmosphere and see if it’s the right fit for me.”

18. How would you handle a situation where the choreographer gave you a move that was too difficult for your level?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you respond to constructive criticism and whether you’re willing to work hard to improve your skills. In your answer, try to show that you are open to feedback and committed to improving your abilities as a dancer.

Example: “If I was ever presented with a move that was too difficult for my level, I would first take the time to assess the situation. I would communicate with the choreographer and explain why I think it is beyond my current skill set. From there, we could work together to come up with an alternative solution that works for both of us.

I believe in being honest and open about my abilities so that everyone involved can have a successful outcome. If necessary, I am willing to practice outside of rehearsals to ensure that I am able to perform the move correctly. I also understand the importance of collaboration and working as a team to create something special.”

19. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when performing in a show?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can contribute to a team. Your answer should include information about what you think is important, as well as specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your ability to prioritize tasks.

Example: “The most important thing to remember when performing in a show is that you must be confident and passionate about your craft. As a dancer, it’s essential to have the ability to express yourself through movement while also conveying emotion to an audience. It’s important to stay focused on the task at hand and not get distracted by any external factors. I believe that having a strong understanding of the choreography and being able to execute it with precision is key to delivering a successful performance. Finally, it’s important to remain open-minded and take direction from the director or choreographer if needed. With my years of experience as a professional dancer, I am confident that I can bring all these qualities to the table and deliver a great performance every time.”

20. Are there any dance moves or styles you are particularly skilled at?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have any unique skills or talents that can benefit their company. They want to know what makes you stand out from other dancers and how you can contribute to the team. When answering this question, try to think of a skill that is relevant to the job description. If you are applying for a position as a ballet dancer, for example, your answer should relate to ballet.

Example: “Yes, I am very skilled at a variety of dance moves and styles. I have been dancing for over 10 years and have trained in many different genres including hip hop, jazz, contemporary, ballet, and tap. My specialty is hip hop, which I have studied extensively. I’m able to perform intricate choreography with ease and can easily pick up on new routines. I also have experience teaching classes, so I’m confident that I could help others learn the same skills. I’m always looking for ways to improve my technique and stay current with trends in the industry.”

21. What challenges have you faced while performing and how did you overcome them?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you respond to challenges and whether you have any unique experiences that may be helpful in your new role. Use examples from previous roles or include a specific example of a challenge you faced while performing and how you overcame it.

Example: “I have faced a few challenges while performing as a dancer. One of the biggest ones was dealing with stage fright. I found that the best way to overcome this was to practice my routine over and over again until I felt comfortable in front of an audience. This allowed me to focus on my performance instead of worrying about what other people were thinking.

Another challenge I’ve encountered is staying motivated when learning new routines or techniques. To keep myself motivated, I set small goals for myself each day and reward myself when I reach them. This helps me stay focused and gives me something to work towards.”

22. Describe a time when you had to adjust your performance style to fit into a particular production.

This question can help an interviewer understand how you adapt to different situations and challenges. Use your answer to highlight your flexibility, problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to perform in a production that required me to adjust my style of dancing. The show was an experimental piece, and it called for dancers who could move fluidly between different styles. I had to quickly learn how to blend contemporary dance with hip-hop and jazz movements.

At first, I was intimidated by the challenge. But after some practice and research, I was able to develop a unique performance style that blended all three genres together. I worked hard to make sure each movement flowed seamlessly from one to the next. My efforts paid off as the audience responded positively to my performance.”

23. Do you prefer learning new material alone or with someone else?

This question can help an interviewer determine how you work with others. It can also show them whether you prefer to be independent or collaborative in your learning process. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a time when you worked well with a team and a time when you preferred to work alone.

Example: “I believe that both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. When I’m learning new material alone, I can focus on the details without any distractions. This allows me to really understand the choreography and practice it until I feel comfortable with it. On the other hand, when I learn with someone else, I get feedback from them which helps me improve my technique. It also makes the process more enjoyable as we can encourage each other and motivate one another. Ultimately, I prefer a combination of both methods depending on the situation.”

24. What techniques do you use to stay focused during long rehearsals?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you manage your time and energy during long rehearsals. Use examples from past experiences to show that you know how to stay motivated and focused while working on a project for an extended period of time.

Example: “I understand the importance of staying focused during long rehearsals and have developed a few techniques to help me stay on task. First, I make sure that I am well-rested before each rehearsal so that my body and mind are ready for the work ahead. I also like to take short breaks throughout the rehearsal to give myself time to regroup and refocus. This helps me keep my energy levels up and allows me to come back to the choreography with fresh eyes. Finally, I use positive self-talk to remind myself why I’m there and how important it is to stay focused. By using these techniques, I can ensure that I’m giving my best effort every time I step into the studio.”

25. Have you ever experienced stage fright and if so, how did you manage it?

Stage fright is a common issue for dancers. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the confidence and skills necessary to perform in front of an audience. In your answer, share what steps you took to overcome stage fright. Explain that you are now comfortable performing in front of large crowds.

Example: “Yes, I have experienced stage fright before. It can be a very intimidating feeling when you’re about to perform in front of an audience. To manage it, I take deep breaths and focus on the steps that I need to do. I also remind myself that I am well-prepared for this performance and that I know what I’m doing. I find that visualizing my success helps me stay calm and confident. Finally, I make sure to warm up properly beforehand so that I feel physically prepared. All these strategies help me overcome any feelings of anxiety and allow me to give my best performance.”