Non-Profit Classical Dance Companies: A Study of Support for the Dancer's Profession in the United States

The extent to which non-profit classical dance companies in the United States are managing the inevitable challenges a dancer faces in the areas of physical health, psychological health, career guidance and education, and economic stability is investigated. This study examines not only the kinds of programs companies offer, but also the ways in which they engage artists and their issues. The results indicate that most companies surveyed lack programs in career transition and education, as well as in psycholological health. There are also significant deficiencies in economic support, where companies do not often provide severance or accessible pension funds and rarely support dancers during off-seasons. However, physical health services, such as physical therapy and massage, are common. Efforts are also made to care for additional support, including partnerships with accredited colleges, the implementation of dancer reserve funds, and the development of scholarship grants. The issue of confidentiality is also discussed throughout the study and recognized as a crucial element in all support services.