Choreography Internship
(Contact Internship and Career Advisor about academic credit eligibility)
Choreographers design and direct the dance or stylized movement in musical productions at RTOP and work closely with the director and musical director.
A choreographer works with dancers to interpret and develop ideas and transform them into the finished performance.
Choreographer Interns must gain a full understanding of the director's vision of each show they work on, including style and pacing, and must be familiar with the script and music. An effective choreographer supports the director's vision, so that all elements of movement and dance work as part of the larger picture. Choreographers may have a great deal of freedom with their work, but even so, the result must be part of an organic whole, supporting the story, characters, and the overall artistic intent.
As part of the production's support team, the choreographer must work closely with the musical director (and accompanist), costume designer, set designer and lighting designer, to make sure that all stage movement is compatible with musical cues, costuming , sets and lighting.
Choreographers at RTOP must often work with non-dancers, or dancers with limited experience, as well as those who have had considerable training. This can mean extra rehearsal time, which must be planned for. Choreographers may use team captains or assistants to work with individuals or groups within the ensemble, as a way of maximizing the amount of time available for rehearsal.