Booking rehearsal spaces in major cities where a number of successful dance companies are located can be tough; the demand for limited spaces and prices continue to rise. Choreographers seek dancers who learn dance sequences quickly because they ultimately save choreographers money and time. Dancers can become fast learners by attending as many dance classes as they can, and treating each class as if it was an audition. Concentrate on picking up movements quickly, but also focus on detail and nuances. Broadway auditions typically call for specific character types and you need to be able to convey the essence of the character you are portraying.
Like any other job, you need to exhibit professionalism at all times. Arrive early, be ready to dance at the time you were asked to arrive and do not socialize. Adam Shankman, producer of Step Up 3D, recommends dancers stretch and warm up their bodies at home, and states that lateness is irritating, distracting and indicates a lack of professionalism. Be humble, gracious and open to criticism; no one enjoys working with a narcissistic diva. Pull your hair up into a bun if the audition listing states it; it shows you were attentive and take your dancing seriously.
Have confidence in your dance abilities and let your dancing speak for itself. Hip-hop choreographer, Jamal Sims, recommends dancers leave their bright-colored clothing at home; the dancing should catch the judges' attention, not the apparel. Boost your self-confidence by dancing in the front line of class, which forces you to look at yourself dancing in the mirror. It may feel highly uncomfortable at first, but you can become accustomed to looking at yourself with time.
Dancers with charisma connect with audience members and keep them engaged. Audience members cannot peel their eyes away from a dancer who possesses great charisma. Although this quality is a necessity for all forms of dance, it is especially important for the music video industry. Dancers working in music videos must look good on camera. An awkward and forced expression is difficult to watch and it makes audience members lose interest. Musical theater and music video choreographer, Rhonda Miller, advises dancers find their personal charisma by performing audition choreography in front of a mirror.
Dancers who take risks stand out from the rest. Krista Monson, head of casting for Cirque du Soleil's American resident shows, looks for dancers who take risks and are not afraid to fail. Dancers who take these risks do whatever it takes to procure a role despite potential humiliation and failure; this communicates desirable values such as passion and commitment. In a packed room of dancers competing for a single role, taking a leap of faith may help you stand out and perhaps even land the role.