To become a dancer, by the literal definition of the word, all that one has to do is dance. However, it takes several years of training to become a professional dancer. Dancers are a very special breed of people. They need to be, because to get through the training, the rehearsal and the injuries, they have to have an iron will. There are different styles of dance like classical (kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, kuchipudi, etc), folk as well as western dance such as ballet, jazz and salsa. Whatever the style of dance you are interested in, make sure you receive good training and research your options to prepare for a career in dance. But keep in mind that a career in dance, as in other performing arts, does not have any firm growth path, as much depends on your talent and abilities. Some artists have been able to command attention and move on to pursue their art as a full-time career. But the numbers are few. There is intense competition in this field and it is difficult for a dancer to establish himself. Dancers work in musical shows, performing folk, ethnic, tap, and jazz dances. Opera, musical comedy, television, movies, music videos and commercials often include dancing . Many dancers sing and act as well. Some dancers also teach or choreograph. Most dancers have a short career or they spend their later years in teaching. Moreover, dancing is hard work. Rehearsals often are long and usually take place daily. Many rehearsals take place on weekends and holidays. Weekend travel is common when a show is on the road. Also, dancers work late hours and practise during the day. So, if you feel that you have what it takes to become a dancer, then you can move ahead for a bright career. Certain colleges and institutions offer recognised courses/training in dancing. It is also offered as a subject at the school and college level. The Kathak Kendra, Delhi, offers a five-year foundation course and also a three-year diploma course in kathak. Kalak-shetra, Chennai, offers a four-year diploma in Bharatanatyam. Institutions such as the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, New Delhi and the Bharatiya Kala Kendra offer courses in Bharatnatyam, Odissi and kathak. The minimum qualification is 10+2 for certificate and diploma courses, and graduation for postgraduate diploma courses. A large number of centres such as the Shri Ram Bharatiya Kala Kendra and the Kathak Kendra in New Delhi and Bhatkhande, Lucknow, offer three-year diploma courses in dance. The Bhatkhande Sangit Vidyalaya, New Delhi (bhaatkhandesangit.com), too, offers dance training. Private academies and institutions run by leading dancers such as Shiamak Davar and Ashley Lobo give training in modern dance. Usha Albuquerque

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