The face of “commercial dance” is constantly evolving. Trends keep changing all the time. In this fiercely competitive world, it is important for young dancers to plan and strategise their career in the field of dance well.
There have been several periods where the industry was leaning towards a popular style and many different styles have had their day. From jazz to breaking and hip-hop to ballroom (which boasts several styles), different styles have emerged of late and are becoming increasingly popular seeking a wide variety of dancers these days. It is unfortunate but true that many dancers that are proficient in one style only are slowly falling by the wayside.
Dancers and choreographers are definitely in demand today considering there are a lot of jobs available. Thanks to hit shows like many seasons of reality shows like Dance India Dance, Nach Baliye, Chak Doom Dhoom, Just Dance and even international hit shows like Dancing With the Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, and of course Bollywood films, musicals and Hollywood coming to India too with film dance is just getting popular by the day.
Commercial dance is definitely here to stay. The dancer works as a member of dancers association when hired for a film or a commercial. The association work comes with welfare and other benefits including residual payments for its members. On many occasions when there is a large group of dancers, the “group” rule has come into effect. It generally starts at Six or more where the day rate is less, but there are still benefits and residuals. The equity minimum for a dancer in the chorus of a show makes for a substantial living.
Bollwood films and dance reality shows have welcomed a wide variety of styles as the commercial world moves forward. Some shows still require strong technical dancers, but, most other shows have Bollywood, hip hop or urban dance as its style. Some episodes remain “classic” but also “keeps up with the times” in terms of music and costumes. Adding necessary voice classes to the plate of a dancer is crucial for shows now, as many dub their own voices-overs and did I mention the importance of acting class? A dancer has to do so much today.
Dance isn’t restricted to one particular age group today. I had the pleasure of choreographing a commercial with top Thai actress Sririta Genson, where I hired 40 dancers ranging in age from 20 to 60 something! This happens quite rarely. Dance agencies are thriving as more and more dancers of all styles and ages hit the scene.
So then make sure you get there and dance your heart out. Like Debbie Allen said in the movie Fame, "You got big dreams? You want fame? Well, fame costs and right here is where you start paying — In Sweat.”