Contemporary Dancer Courses
Contemporary Dancers perform in various productions, requiring talent, flexibility, teamwork, and commitment to fitness and rehearsals.
AI Exposure
Medium
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Contemporary Dancer
Get qualified to work as a Contemporary Dancer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CUA30120
Duration
11 months - 24 months
Study mode
On Campus, Online
Become a dance professional with the CUA30120 Certificate III in Dance. This nationally recognised qualification covers a range of dance styles (ballet, jazz, rhythm, contemporary) and will develop your audition, improvisation, partnering and performance techniques. The course also helps you condition your body for dance performance, plus improve your overall level of fitness.
Enquire now for the list of study units and your eligibility for enrolment.
Career opportunities
Duration
11 months - 24 months
Study mode
On Campus, Online
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CUA40120
Duration
6 months - 24 months
The CUA40120 Certificate IV In Dance is for experienced dancers who want hone their performance skills or become dance teachers and choreographers. Over 12-18 months of study you’ll be building your physical condition and confidence as an artist, while working alongside a dance teacher in your preferred genre (jazz, street dance, ballet, tap, cultural dance and other contemporary styles).
Enquire now for the list entry requirements and enrolment opportunities near you.
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
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CUA30220
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
Get started in community arts and theatre with the CUA30220 Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events. This nationally recognised qualification is great for both performers and production crew. Your studies begin with an introduction to the creative arts industry and career planning sessions. You’ll also gain essential skills in workplace safety, communication, and diversity. The course also has scope to learn: acrobatics, acting techniques, Aboriginal culture, costume design, booking adminis...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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CUA50220
Estimated fee
From $14,000
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Take your love of live theatre, acting, and dance to a professional level with the CUA50220 Diploma of Musical Theatre. This nationally recognised qualification improves your technique in jazz and contemporary dance, singing and vocals, acting, hair and makeup. The course also covers performance fitness, strength, and nutrition.
Enquire now for the full list of study units and enrolment availability.
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $14,000
Duration
12 months - 24 months
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Contemporary Dancer.
Common questions
How much does a Contemporary Dancer earn?
In Australia, a full time Contemporary Dancer generally earns $1,200 per week ($62,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Contemporary Dancer?
Contemporary Dancers have enjoyed stable job growth in Australia in recent years. There are a small number of people in this industry though with 1,000 people currently in this job role. Contemporary Dancers generally find work in larger cities where productions are based.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Contemporary Dancer?
A Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) is a great qualification if you want a career as a Contemporary Dancer. You could also consider a Certificate III or IV in Dance or a Diploma of Musical Theatre. You could also enrol in an Advanced Diploma of Art (Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance), a Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events (Acting) or a Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
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Musical theatre, acting for stage and screen, and contemporary performance skills are all covered by these recognised qualifications. Find out more!
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Choose training courses in a wide range of dance genres including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap and musical theatre. Find out more!
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More information
A Contemporary Dancer takes on roles in musical and stage productions, film and television projects or other performances for an audience. You might be part of a larger dance ensemble, dance with a partner or you may have a solo performance role. Contemporary Dancers follow choreographed routines and spend a large part of their time rehearsing on their own or with fellow dancers.
Contemporary Dancers need to be highly talented to embark on a professional career. You’ll need to attend a lot of auditions and be flexible with your performance roles. Contemporary Dancers work irregular hours and need to keep themselves fit and healthy. It’s important that you can collaborate with other dancers and choreographers and work well in a team setting.
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