There comes a time in every dancer's life when they stop dancing. It might be because they are retiring after a full and rewarding career. Or it might be forced on them mid-career before they wish because of injury or similar. Or it might occur simply because the dancer has decided that performance is not for them, even before they've set a foot on stage.
Whatever the reason, the most daunting part of the decision is deciding what else to do with their lives. Dance is such a obsessive, all-consuming passion. It is not your usual 9-5 job – it is a calling, a vocation, no other career stands comparison. For many, giving up dance is not just a matter of changing jobs, it is like stepping into a void. What is out there that could ever match the thrill of a dance career? And anyway, what else can a dancer possibly do but dance? Even in these days when academic training can be continued while continuing to dance, many dancers feel unqualified to do anything else. Many may delay the decision not to dance because they are so scared of making the leap.
And yet, with an open mind and eyes, many wonderful careers are on offer that can keep you connected with the world of dance -- and the dancer's overarching love of theatre. In fact, once a dancer steps out of the studio and takes a more objective look at what they do, they can realise that the performers are just one part of a large and hugely exciting world. There's the theatre, the performing arts, entertainment (which often come under the banner of “cultural industries”), there's the science of the body and movement, and many other occupations which can keep you in touch with the extended family that is dance.
In the October/November issue of Dance Australia, we compile an inspiring list of careers for dancers that don't involve actual dancing. Look out for your issue in your favourite retail outlet, purchase via our app, or subscribe here.