Choreographer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 60,000 - 90,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedule

Collaborative environment

Project-based fee

Job summary

Durban Performing Arts Institute in Durban seeks an experienced Choreographer to design and implement captivating movement sequences for upcoming productions. You will translate artistic concepts into visually dynamic choreography and work closely with directors and performers to align movement with narrative and style.

The role requires expertise across contemporary, ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, plus strong collaboration, teaching, and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Significant professional experience as a Choreographer.
• Expertise in multiple dance genres (e.g., contemporary, ballet, jazz, hip-hop).
• Proven ability to create original, compelling, and technically sound choreography for stage.
• Excellent understanding of theatrical production processes and collaboration with creative teams.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and teach original choreography for stage productions, ensuring it aligns with the director's vision and the production's theme.
• Create movement vocabulary that effectively conveys character emotions, narrative progression, and thematic elements.
• Collaborate with directors, actors, dancers, and other creative team members throughout the rehearsal process.
• Conduct regular rehearsals, providing clear and constructive feedback to performers to achieve desired movement quality and precision.
• Adapt choreography based on performer abilities, stage limitations, and evolving creative requirements.
• Ensure the physical safety and well-being of performers during rehearsals and performances.
• Research and integrate diverse dance styles and movement forms as appropriate for specific projects.
• Work with costume and set designers to ensure the choreography is visually cohesive and practical within the production's design.
• Contribute to the overall artistic integrity and success of each production.
• Potentially lead workshops or masterclasses for aspiring dancers and performers associated with the institution.

Skills

Choreography

Dance genres

Movement theory

Leadership

Teaching/coaching

Education

Bachelor's degree in Dance

Theatre arts related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious performing arts institution based in Durban, is seeking a highly creative and experienced Choreographer to design and implement captivating movement sequences for upcoming productions. This role is essential in bringing artistic visions to life through dynamic and expressive dance. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of various dance styles and a proven ability to translate concepts into visually stunning choreography. You will work closely with directors, performers, and design teams to ensure the movement language aligns perfectly with the overall narrative and aesthetic of each production. Join our vibrant Durban-based team and contribute to the rich tapestry of South African performing arts.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and teach original choreography for stage productions, ensuring it aligns with the director's vision and the production's theme.
• Create movement vocabulary that effectively conveys character emotions, narrative progression, and thematic elements.
• Collaborate with directors, actors, dancers, and other creative team members throughout the rehearsal process.
• Conduct regular rehearsals, providing clear and constructive feedback to performers to achieve desired movement quality and precision.
• Adapt choreography based on performer abilities, stage limitations, and evolving creative requirements.
• Ensure the physical safety and well-being of performers during rehearsals and performances.
• Research and integrate diverse dance styles and movement forms as appropriate for specific projects.
• Work with costume and set designers to ensure the choreography is visually cohesive and practical within the production's design.
• Contribute to the overall artistic integrity and success of each production.
• Potentially lead workshops or masterclasses for aspiring dancers and performers associated with the institution.

Requirements

• Significant professional experience as a Choreographer, with a strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of works.
• Expertise in multiple dance genres (e.g., contemporary, ballet, jazz, hip-hop) and a strong foundation in movement theory.
• Proven ability to create original, compelling, and technically sound choreography for stage.
• Excellent understanding of theatrical production processes and collaboration with creative teams.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate performers.
• Experience in teaching and coaching dancers of varying skill levels.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing creative demands.
• A keen eye for detail, spatial awareness, and musicality.
• Knowledge of dance history and contemporary choreographic trends is advantageous.
• A background in the Durban performing arts scene is a plus.
• Bachelor's degree in Dance, Choreography, Theatre Arts, or a related field is preferred.

Benefits

• This contracting role offers a competitive project-based fee, commensurate with experience and the scope of the production.
• As a contractor, you will enjoy flexibility in your schedule.
• You will have the opportunity to collaborate with a highly respected arts organization and work with talented professionals within the Durban arts community.
• This position provides a platform to showcase your creative talents on significant productions and to contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape.