Dear Katie: How Can I Develop the Skills I Need to Become a Choreographer?

In our “Dear Katie” series, former NYCB soloist Kathryn Morgan answers your pressing dance questions. Have something you want to ask Katie? Email
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Dear Katie,

I like dance, but what I really want to do is choreograph. The problem is that I’m only 15
and I live in a small town, so there aren’t many
opportunities for me to create dances. How can I develop the skills I need to become a choreographer?

Angelica

Dear Angelica,

Good for you! I’d suggest reaching out to your local arts community. Is there a small theater group with a musical coming up? That could be a great place to start your choreographic adventure. Are any nearby schools or churches putting on productions? They’d probably be thrilled to have you!

In terms of developing your skills, there’s so much available online these days. Watch videos of pieces by your favorite choreographers. Analyze the patterns and formations they use, the structures of their pas de deux, and the way they connect to music.

You can also put together a choreography reel, even if you don’t have professional experience yet. Find friends or classmates who are willing to be your guinea pigs, create something small for them during your downtime in the studio, film it, and post it to YouTube. That way, you’ll have something to show the people you’ll be reaching out to. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

For more of Katie’s helpful tips and advice, click here.