choreografin

Choreografin is the feminine German noun for a choreographer, i.e., a person who creates, designs and directs dance works. The term designates primarily women in the profession; the masculine form is Choreograf. In German, a closely related term is choreography (Choreografie), the art and technique of constructing movement sequences, and a choreografin may work across genres including ballet, contemporary dance, theatre, and film.

A choreografin conceives the overall movement language of a piece, drafts the choreographic structure, and interprets the musical or dramaturgical concept into movement. She collaborates with dancers, composers, set and lighting designers, costume designers, and stage directors to realize a performance. Responsibilities often include selecting dancers, blocking, rehearsing, adjusting dynamics, and ensuring safety and pacing. In some settings, a choreografin also serves as a stage director or dramaturg, shaping narrative and thematic content.

Training and career paths typically combine formal dance education with study in choreography or theatre, plus extensive rehearsal experience. Many choreografin careers develop within dance companies, with independent collaborations, or in theatre and film productions. Professional practice today frequently involves workshop development, audience engagement, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Notable choreografin include Pina Bausch and Martha Graham, among others, whose work has influenced both female representation in the field and the development of modern choreography. The term remains relevant in German-speaking contexts and more broadly as a gendered descriptor within a global dance profession.