Can You Become a Professional Dancer Without Natural Talent?

It's a common perception that professional dancers must possess innate talent to succeed. However, personal experiences from both idols and professional trainers challenge this notion. Let's explore the reality behind becoming a professional dancer.

Attiez’s Journey: A Case in Point

Take for instance Attez, a well-known K-pop group. Their leader, IM (real name: Cho Seunghyun), started his journey as a trainee and wasn't particularly skilled in dancing or singing at the beginning. Despite these early challenges, he has since slayed every stage, demonstrating that natural talent isn't the only path to success.

Limits of Natural Talent and Early Training

According to professional ballet trainer, 13 years of experience guiding professional ballet, the path to becoming a professional dancer is far more demanding than just noting down one's potential. A combination of unique physical attributes and early onset training is crucial.

Musicians with the right typically start ballet training between the ages of 6-8 years old. This age is often seen as a critical period for development. However, this doesn't guarantee a professional career. For example, conducting professional ballet for over 13 years has shown that even those with the right body structure and musicality cannot transform their bodies with the right training alone.

According to the professional trainer, 3% of the population have the necessary physical structure for a ballet career, which includes the right bone and muscle configuration. Additionally, one must have the required musicality. Even someone as thin as a pin might not have the necessary physique for a professional career, and no amount of training can change that.

Nurturing Potential Through Professional Schools

Once a young dancer has the potential, they need full-time professional training from an early age. Many dancers start their careers at a world-class school from an early age, typically by the age of 6 or 7. These schools often have strict screening processes. For example, female dancers are typically not accepted as beginners after the age of 11. Occasionally, exceptionally talented dancers might be brought in at age 12 or 13, but this is rare.

Men can and do start later but have different requirements for their physical build and flexibility. These world-class schools serve as feeder programs to professional dance companies. Students aim to train for 20-30 hours a week year-round, dedicating their time and effort. Though training is rigorous, there is no guarantee of success. Many talented and well-trained dancers struggle to secure a professional career.

The Challenges of a Ballet Career

Ballet careers are known for their financial instability and short duration, often lasting just a few years. Professional dancers must often seek a second career to sustain themselves. Recreational ballet, on the other hand, is open to anyone of any age and ability. This allows those who love dance but lack natural talent to enjoy the art form without the pressure of a professional career.

Moreover, many dancers live in school dorms and manage their academics according to their schools' schedules to advance their careers. By age 16-17, if a dancer is lucky, they might be offered an apprenticeship with a ballet company and eventually join the corps de ballet. This period of dedication is the foundation of their professional dance training.

Conclusion: Enjoyment Over Professional Success

In summary, while natural talent and early training are undoubtedly beneficial, they are not the only factors in achieving a professional dance career. The journey is fraught with challenges, but the joy of dance remains a significant motivator. Whether one aspires to become a professional dancer or simply enjoys dance recreationally, the beauty of this art form continues to captivate many.

For those interested in starting their dance journey, finding an age-appropriate beginner ballet class can open numerous doors to personal achievement and joy. Remember, the pursuit of dance as a hobby can bring immense satisfaction and fulfillment without the pressures of a profession.