Being chosen to work on a paid gig as a dancer is a huge step in a person’s career. The majority of gigs will require the dancer to sign a contract. This document should protect the dancer and the business hiring them.
While you might be super excited to work on the gig, you can’t let your enthusiasm get the best of you. Instead, be sure that you look over the document before you sign it. Here are a couple of questions you need to ask:
Is there a non-compete clause?
The non-compete clause can prevent you from getting other gigs for a specific amount of time. There could be other terms that come with the non-compete, such as not being able to reuse the choreography that you used for this gig. Additionally, check for the copyright information so you know who owns the choreography. If you create your own choreography for the gig, make sure the other party isn’t trying to take the copyright from you without providing you with just compensation.
What’s the credit for the work entail?
Your name, biography, and pictures or videos might be used in marketing materials. You should be able to have a say in what’s published. Double-check the information they want to share so you can determine if you’re comfortable with it being made public. Ideally, you’ll be able to approve these credits and the way you’re represented before they’re published.
All entertainers, including dancers, should have someone review their contracts before they sign them. This helps to ensure that they fully understand their responsibilities (before they sign) and other terms of the contract. It can also help them to know what recourse they have if the other party violates their deal in the future.