It is difficult to find dance work in New Zealand because opportunities are limited and competition for positions is high. Census figures show that the number of dancers has remained relatively stable since 1996.
Number of dancers employed in New Zealand
(1996, 2001, 2006)| Census | Number of dancers |
|---|
| 1996 | 126 |
| 2001 | 144 |
| 2006 | 138 |
| Source: Department of Labour, Jobs and Tertiary Education Indicator Tool. |
Most dancers work on contract, but limited opportunities exist to work as full-time ballet dancers
Most dancers work on contract for the duration of particular projects or performances. However, the Royal New Zealand Ballet (RNZB), which consists of 16 male and 16 female ballet dancers, employs its dancers on a full-time basis.
The RNZB conducts open auditions once a year in September/October to fill any vacancies, and when extra dancers are required the company offers temporary contracts, which may be extended. New Zealanders compete with dancers from overseas for places in the RNZB. Competition for places is much higher for females than for males, as many more females audition.
Versatility and supplementary work are important due to limited dancing opportunities
Dance opportunities in New Zealand are limited, so you increase your chances of getting work if you can dance in a number of styles.
The scarcity of dance work means that many dancers work in another area as well, such as acting, teaching or publicity, to supplement their income.
Many New Zealand dancers find work with overseas companies. For example, in the UK, skilled ballet dancer is one of the jobs on the list of occupations open to non-European Union migrants.
Seasonal peaks for contemporary dancers
Contemporary dancers are more in demand around Christmas due to demand for corporate dance shows. There are smaller peaks throughout winter due to demand for dance performances at occasions such as balls and awards ceremonies.
Dancers typically have a short but intense career
While dancers tend to stay in the role for a significant amount of time, their dance careers are relatively short. Many retire due to injury caused by decreasing levels of fitness or flexibility. This provides some opportunities for new dancers.
Dancers may need to retrain in another area when they finish their dancing career.
The Royal New Zealand Ballet is the only dance company in New Zealand that offers full-time employment for ballet dancers. Some ballet dancers may work on a contract basis for corporate events or musical productions.
Contemporary companies employ dancers on a freelance basis, often on short-term contracts.
The top five industries that employ dancers are:
- arts (52% of dancers)
- pubs, taverns and bars (9%)
- other personal services (7%)
- education (7%)
- sport (5%).
Most dancers are based in the main regions of New Zealand, where demand is greatest because of population:
- Auckland (40% of dancers)
- Wellington (24%)
- Canterbury (16%).
All full-time ballet dancers work in Wellington, as this is where the RNZB is based.
Contemporary dancers tend to work in Auckland or Wellington because most freelance dance companies are based in these areas.
