In a performance, a backup dancer follows the leads, dancing alongside or behind them to add depth to the choreography. Backup dancers are available for both live and recorded performances. They could be hired on a contract basis or as part of an artist’s or dance troupe’s permanent creative team. Some pop stars and other performers begin their careers as backup dancers, rising through the ranks as their skills improve and eventually having the opportunity to audition for lead roles on their own.
Professional training and skills in the type of dance they will perform are required of these dancers. A hip-hop backup dancer, for example, must know specific moves that are not required of pop backup dancers. Musical theater performers may also have small speaking or singing roles, as well as dancing in the background in other scenes, and thus require a versatile set of creative skills.
Backup dancers are required to attend a series of rehearsals in order to learn the choreography and practice the routine. They collaborate with the lead and choreographer, and may be taped during rehearsals to provide material for post-show review and study. The dancers can begin filming for recorded performances or perform live at concerts, musicals, and other events once they are familiar with the piece and ready to perform. Dancers on tour must stay in shape and attend regular rehearsals at new locations in order to make any necessary changes to the choreography in order to adapt to new performance spaces.
A live performance can present a variety of difficulties. Dancers must be able to adjust to errors and other issues that may arise during a performance. The ability to improvise can be useful for covering up mistakes, forgotten lyrics, and other occurrences. While such incidents are uncommon, they do occur, and a backup dancer’s quick recovery can be crucial. The dancers may be able to conceal an event so well that the audience is unaware of it, reducing the risk of negative feedback or complaints from disgruntled customers.
Physical exertion is a possibility in this line of work. On tour, a backup dancer may perform multiple nights in a row, with performances lasting two hours or longer. Extreme strength, flexibility, and fitness may be required for some of the moves. While performing, the dancers must protect themselves from injuries and strains. Pay and benefits vary depending on the company or artist that hires the dancers, as well as their position in the cast.