dancers

Dancers are performers who communicate ideas, emotions, or narratives through movement, rhythm, and gesture. They may perform solo or in ensembles and work across a wide range of styles, from classical to contemporary and folk traditions. Dancers often train for years in specific techniques and maintain high levels of physical fitness, alignment, balance, and musicality.

Styles include ballet, contemporary and modern dance, jazz, tap, hip-hop, folk and social dances (such as ballroom and Latin), and traditional forms from regions around the world (for example Indian classical dances, Flamenco, African and Pacific Island dances).

Training typically involves formal schools or conservatories as well as studio classes and rehearsals. Dancers study technique, repertoire, performance skills, and often cross-train in conditioning, injury prevention, and dance theory. A career can involve auditions, contracts with companies, and freelance work; the profession often requires stamina, discipline, and resilience.

Ballet emphasizes turnout and alignment; contemporary styles emphasize expression and versatility; other genres emphasize rhythm, feeling, or storytelling. Improvisation is common in some forms, especially modern and street styles. Dancers may work in live theater, film, television, or staged concerts.

Global dance traditions reflect cultural history, social function, and artistry. The modern era saw the professionalization of dance, expansion of women's participation, and the emergence of street and urban dance cultures. Institutions, festivals, and organizations promote training, preservation, and dissemination of dance.

Health considerations include injury prevention, rest, and nutrition. Dancers may face job insecurity and a competitive market; many combine dance with teaching or choreography. Dancers contribute to education, community engagement, and cultural exchange.