Dance troupe


A dance troupe or dance company is a group of dancers and associated personnel who work together to perform dances as a spectacle or entertainment. There are many different types of dance companies, often working in different styles of dance. Some companies are formed from members of dance studios or from paid professionals. Dance troupes may be formed for competition purposes. Many dance companies are established within cities to be near theatres or other performing art venues.

History

There is evidence that shows the start of dance troupes in Roman and Greek times. These groups were originally for musicals and performed in theatres. Dance troupes would perform for the high class as a form of entertainment. As music evolved so did the types of dance troupes. In more recent years, dance troupes are seen on musical television programs.

Roles

In small companies several of these functions will be carried out by the same person without explicit job titles, while a ballet company, for example, is often larger and has a more defined set up. Many dance companies hire professional dancers to work for them. These dancers will perform in the concert, showcase, or performance the company is putting together. Company dancers can be hired for long periods of time.