5 Choreographer Interview Questions and Answers

Introduction

This question is important as it assesses your flexibility and creativity in choreography, key traits for an assistant choreographer who must often modify routines for various performances and settings.

How to answer

• Begin by explaining the original choreography and the specific requirements of the new style or venue.
• Detail the steps you took to adapt the choreography, including any collaboration with the lead choreographer or dancers.
• Highlight the challenges you faced during the adaptation process and how you overcame them.
• Discuss the feedback received from the dancers or audience after the adaptation.
• Conclude with what you learned from this experience that you can apply to future projects.

What not to say

• Avoid focusing solely on the original choreography without discussing the adaptation process.
• Do not neglect to explain why the changes were necessary.
• Refrain from blaming others for any difficulties encountered during the adaptation.
• Avoid vague responses that lack detail about your specific contributions.

Example answer

“During a production in Madrid, I had to adapt a contemporary dance piece for a traditional theater setting, which required a more classical approach. I worked closely with the lead choreographer to incorporate elements of ballet, ensuring the transitions were smooth. Despite initial resistance from some dancers, my clear communication and encouragement helped them embrace the changes. The audience responded positively, and I learned the importance of adaptability and collaboration in choreography.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your conflict resolution and interpersonal skills, which are vital for maintaining a harmonious and productive rehearsal environment.

How to answer

• Describe your approach to identifying and addressing conflicts early.
• Explain how you create a supportive environment that encourages open communication.
• Provide an example of a specific conflict you managed and the resolution process.
• Emphasize the importance of maintaining team morale and focus on the collective goal.
• Discuss any follow-up actions you took to prevent future conflicts.

What not to say

• Avoid suggesting that conflicts should be ignored or swept under the rug.
• Do not portray yourself as overly authoritative or dismissive of dancers' feelings.
• Refrain from providing a one-size-fits-all solution without considering individual personalities.
• Avoid vague examples that do not demonstrate your specific role in conflict resolution.

Example answer

“In a recent rehearsal, two dancers had a disagreement over choreography interpretation, which began to affect the group's dynamics. I intervened by facilitating a private discussion where each dancer expressed their view. I guided them to find common ground and suggested a compromise that incorporated elements from both perspectives. This not only resolved the conflict but also strengthened their collaboration. I learned that addressing issues directly and fostering open dialogue is key to maintaining a positive rehearsal environment.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your creativity and adaptability as a choreographer, essential traits for tailoring performances to various contexts and artists.

How to answer

• Start with a brief overview of the original choreography and the context of the performance.
• Explain the specific changes you made to adapt to the performers' skills or the venue's layout.
• Discuss the thought process behind your adaptations and how you ensured the essence of the piece was maintained.
• Share the outcome of the performance and any feedback received.
• Highlight any lessons learned from this experience.

What not to say

• Describing a rigid approach without consideration for the performers' strengths.
• Failing to mention the importance of collaboration with the dancers.
• Ignoring the impact of the venue on the choreography.
• Not providing concrete examples or results from the adaptation process.

Example answer

“While working on a project at the Palais Garnier, I originally choreographed a piece for a large ensemble. However, when we had to transition to a smaller venue with fewer dancers, I adapted the choreography by focusing on duets and trios that highlighted the strengths of the remaining performers. This not only maintained the emotional impact of the piece but also allowed for more intimate interactions. The audience response was overwhelmingly positive, and I learned the importance of flexibility in my choreography.”

Introduction

This question assesses your passion for choreography and your strategies for continuous learning and growth in your craft.

How to answer

• Discuss specific sources of inspiration, such as other art forms, nature, or personal experiences.
• Mention any techniques you use to keep your work innovative, like collaborating with other artists or experimenting with new styles.
• Share your approach to professional development, such as attending workshops or taking classes.
• Explain how you incorporate feedback into your creative process.
• Highlight any specific projects where you successfully applied these inspirations.

What not to say

• Claiming you have never struggled with inspiration.
• Focusing only on external sources without mentioning personal growth.
• Failing to show a proactive approach to learning and adaptation.
• Being vague about your creative process and sources of inspiration.

Example answer

“I find inspiration in various places, from contemporary art to street dance. I regularly attend workshops and collaborate with dancers from different styles, which pushes me to think outside the box. For instance, after a workshop in hip-hop, I incorporated some of those elements into my classical choreography, which led to a unique fusion piece that received great acclaim at the Festival d'Avignon. Continuous learning is essential for keeping my work fresh.”

Introduction

This question is crucial for understanding your adaptability and problem-solving skills as a choreographer, especially in high-pressure situations where flexibility is key.

How to answer

• Start by describing the context and the unexpected change that occurred
• Explain your thought process in deciding how to adapt the routine
• Detail any collaboration with dancers or production staff to implement changes
• Highlight the outcome, including audience reactions or performance success
• Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it improved your skills

What not to say

• Blaming others for the situation without taking responsibility
• Focusing solely on the technical aspects without discussing team dynamics
• Neglecting to mention specific outcomes or audience feedback
• Avoiding the challenge and not showcasing your creative process

Example answer

“During a major production at Artscape Theatre, a key dancer got injured just hours before our performance. I quickly assessed the situation and collaborated with the ensemble to rearrange the choreography. We added some improvisation to fill the gaps, and the performance went off without a hitch, receiving a standing ovation. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of teamwork and quick thinking in choreography.”

Introduction

This question aims to delve into your creative methodology and how you translate ideas into dance, which is essential for a senior choreographer role.

How to answer

• Outline your initial inspiration and how you gather ideas
• Explain the steps you take to develop the choreography, from concept to execution
• Discuss collaboration with dancers and other artists during the process
• Highlight any challenges encountered and how you overcame them
• Mention the final outcome and any feedback received

What not to say

• Providing vague answers without a structured methodology
• Ignoring the importance of collaboration and feedback
• Focusing solely on the end result without discussing the creative journey
• Neglecting to mention any specific artistic influences or styles

Example answer

“For a recent project, I drew inspiration from traditional South African dance and contemporary styles. I started with improvisational sessions with my dancers to capture their unique movements. We spent weeks refining the choreography,, balancing authenticity with innovative elements. The final performance at the National Arts Festival was well-received, and I was proud to showcase both our cultural heritage and modern expression.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your ability to accept and incorporate feedback, a critical skill for a lead choreographer who must balance their creative vision with the expectations of collaborators.

How to answer

• Provide a specific example using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• Explain the context of the choreography and the initial vision you had
• Detail the feedback received and the rationale behind it
• Describe how you adapted your choreography while maintaining your creative integrity
• Share the outcome and any positive impacts on the performance or production

What not to say

• Dismissing feedback as unimportant or irrelevant
• Failing to provide a specific example or being vague
• Not explaining the rationale behind your adaptations
• Focusing too much on personal feelings rather than the collaborative process

Example answer

“During a production of 'West Side Story', the director requested a more contemporary twist on the dance sequences to resonate with younger audiences. Initially, I was hesitant but recognized the potential. I incorporated hip-hop elements while respecting the original choreography. The result was a fresh take that energized the cast and received positive feedback from both the audience and critics, enhancing overall engagement.”

Introduction

This question assesses your awareness of inclusivity in dance and your ability to create an environment where all dancers feel valued and capable of contributing.

How to answer

• Discuss your approach to understanding the diverse skill levels and backgrounds of your dancers
• Explain how you incorporate different styles and techniques to accommodate various abilities
• Provide examples of past projects where you successfully implemented inclusive practices
• Highlight any training or resources you use to educate yourself and your team about inclusivity
• Describe how you create an open feedback loop to ensure all dancers feel comfortable expressing their needs

What not to say

• Assuming inclusivity is only about physical ability
• Not acknowledging the importance of diverse perspectives in choreography
• Failing to provide concrete examples from previous experiences
• Indicating that inclusivity is not a priority in your work

Example answer

“In my recent project with a diverse cast, I conducted initial assessments to understand each dancer's strengths and limitations. I then crafted choreography that included various levels of complexity, allowing everyone to shine. For instance, I integrated simpler moves alongside advanced sequences, which empowered less experienced dancers. I also encouraged open discussions about comfort levels, ensuring all voices were heard. This approach not only fostered inclusivity but also enriched the overall performance.”

Introduction

This question assesses your creativity and problem-solving skills as an Artistic Director, particularly in addressing challenges in choreography.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response.
• Clearly articulate the specific creative challenges you encountered.
• Describe the innovative solutions you implemented to address these challenges.
• Highlight the collaboration with dancers, musicians, or other artists involved in the project.
• Share the outcomes of your approach, including audience reception or critical feedback.

What not to say

• Focusing solely on the technical aspects of choreography without discussing creative challenges.
• Avoiding responsibility by blaming external factors for the challenges.
• Neglecting to mention collaboration and teamwork in overcoming challenges.
• Providing vague responses without specific examples or outcomes.

Example answer

“In my role as the Artistic Director at Teatro Real, I worked on a contemporary ballet that was initially met with skepticism from the dancers due to its unconventional style. The challenge was to maintain their enthusiasm while pushing creative boundaries. I organized several workshops where we explored improvisational techniques, allowing the dancers to contribute their ideas. This collaborative effort led to a unique choreography that was well-received, garnering a standing ovation and positive reviews from critics. It taught me the value of inclusivity in the creative process.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your ability to innovate and your knowledge of various dance styles, which is critical for an Artistic Director.

How to answer

• Discuss your philosophy on blending different dance styles.
• Provide examples of successful integrations you've accomplished in previous works.
• Explain how you ensure cohesion while respecting the integrity of each style.
• Detail your process for researching and understanding the nuances of each dance form.
• Mention how you collaborate with dancers who specialize in different styles.

What not to say

• Claiming that one style is superior without appreciation for others.
• Describing a rigid approach that doesn't allow for flexibility or adaptation.
• Failing to provide specific examples of your work.
• Ignoring the importance of the dancers' input and expertise.

Example answer

“In my experience at the National Dance Company of Spain, I successfully integrated flamenco with contemporary dance in a project called 'Fusion'. I began by thoroughly researching both styles and collaborating with dancers from both backgrounds. By creating a choreography that highlighted the strength of flamenco footwork while incorporating fluid contemporary movements, we achieved a unique performance that respected both forms. The audience appreciated this innovative blend, showcasing how diverse styles can coexist harmoniously.”