Dance Makers
Dance/NY, established in 2001, a branch of Dance/USA, the national service organization for professional dance, has created a census of New York City's 1,000-2,000 dance making entities that represent 40% of Dance/USA membership. The survey, released in May, 2007, was conducted by John Munger, director of research and information for Dance/USA.
These are not the major ballet companies in the city but groups that describe themselves as Modern/Contemporary (63%), Other (28%), Cultural Specific (14%), Ballet (8%) and Liturgical (2%). Ten existed before 1969, with as many at 128 created between 2000-2006. Budget size ranges from $1 million for 15 groups, 18 between $500K-999K, and a total of $178,180,200. Female dancers in the companies number 67%; males, 33% with a surprising 63% female artistic directors over 37% male ADs.
Structurally, 51% are not-for-profit entities; 120 have toured the USA; 52 have toured internationally, with NYC audiences totaling 277,000. More than 314 groups reported 3,781 performances in NYC, for an estimated audience of 1, 317,700; tour audience of 1,136,300 with a total safe estimate of 3,000,000. A valid estimate of dancers is 3,000-4,000. What are your chances for compensation should you decide to perform in NYC without a contract? Salaried dancers perform in 37 groups; 226 are paid per performance; while 111 are "sometimes paid," although 43 are not paid at all.
Companies with a budget over $1 million provide health insurance, with 273 of 304 not offering any kind of health coverage. Where would you rehearse: 18 groups have their own spaces; 17 hold leases; 225 rent by the hour in more than one space with rental rates from $9-$50 an hour.
How does this all add up? If you want to perform with a certain choreographer or just want to be seen in a showcase performance as an audition, take your pick. These companies are just as demanding in technique as other professional groups; include some travel and insurance protection. Remember, your well being and participation is valued by the company. For a copy of the research project "Who We Are," and information on Dance/NY's many services, contact: www.dancenyc.org