Dance Artist Onboarding Checklist

Dance Artist Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Dance Artist starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Performing Arts onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Dance Artist, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Dance Artist onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Dance Artist Onboarding Checklist

1. Contract and paperwork: The dance artist should receive and review their employment contract, which outlines their rights, responsibilities, and compensation. This task is typically performed by the company’s HR department or management team.

2. Orientation and introduction: The dance artist should be given a comprehensive orientation to familiarize them with the company’s mission, values, and culture. They should also be introduced to key personnel, including artistic directors, choreographers, and fellow dancers. This task is usually performed by the company’s management team or a designated mentor.

3. Facility tour: The dance artist should be given a tour of the company’s facilities, including rehearsal studios, dressing rooms, and administrative offices. This task is typically performed by a member of the management team or a designated staff member.

4. Equipment and costume fitting: The dance artist should be provided with necessary equipment, such as dance shoes, and have their measurements taken for costume fittings. This task is usually performed by the company’s wardrobe department or costume designer.

5. Rehearsal schedule and expectations: The dance artist should receive a detailed rehearsal schedule, outlining the dates, times, and locations of rehearsals. They should also be informed of the company’s expectations regarding punctuality, professionalism, and work ethic. This task is typically performed by the artistic director or rehearsal director.

6. Dance repertoire and choreography: The dance artist should be provided with information about the company’s repertoire, including the specific ballets, contemporary pieces, or other works they will be performing. They should also receive any choreography notes or videos to study and prepare for rehearsals. This task is usually performed by the artistic director or choreographer.

7. Health and safety guidelines: The dance artist should be given a thorough overview of the company’s health and safety guidelines, including warm-up and cool-down routines, injury prevention techniques, and emergency procedures. This task is typically performed by the company’s health and safety officer or a designated staff member.

8. Company policies and procedures: The dance artist should be familiarized with the company’s policies and procedures, including attendance policies, code of conduct, and any specific rules related to rehearsals, performances, or touring. This task is usually performed by the HR department or management team.

9. Benefits and support services: The dance artist should be informed about any benefits or support services offered by the company, such as health insurance, counseling services, or professional development opportunities. This task is typically performed by the HR department or management team.

10. Performance schedule and travel arrangements: The dance artist should receive a performance schedule, outlining the dates, times, and locations of upcoming shows. They should also be provided with information about travel arrangements, accommodations, and any additional requirements for touring. This task is usually performed by the company’s production manager or tour coordinator.

11. Marketing and promotion: The dance artist should be informed about the company’s marketing and promotion strategies, including any media appearances, interviews, or photo shoots they may be involved in. They should also be provided with promotional materials, such as headshots or biographies. This task is typically performed by the company’s marketing department or public relations team.

12. Feedback and evaluation: The dance artist should be informed about the company’s feedback and evaluation process, including how and when they will receive constructive criticism or performance reviews. This task is usually performed by the artistic director or a designated mentor.

13. Networking and community engagement: The dance artist should be encouraged to engage with the local dance community and attend networking events or workshops. They should also be informed about any community outreach programs or educational initiatives the company is involved in. This task is typically performed by the company’s outreach coordinator or artistic director.

14. Continuing education and professional development: The dance artist should be provided with information about opportunities for continuing education and professional development, such as masterclasses, workshops, or certifications. They should also be encouraged to pursue personal growth and artistic exploration. This task is usually performed by the artistic director or a designated mentor.

15. Performance etiquette and audience engagement: The dance artist should be educated on performance etiquette, including how to interact with the audience, handle stage fright, and maintain professionalism on and off stage. This task is typically performed by the artistic director or a designated mentor

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Dance Artist checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Dance Artist up to speed and working well in your Performing Arts team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.