Dance as a Professional Career in the Digital Era

Abstract

The central contribution of this article is the proposal of an integrated four-domain competency framework that conceptualizes sustainable dance careers within the platform-based creative economy. It analyzes the dynamics of “dance as a profession in the digital era”, focusing on the changes in the performing arts ecosystem under digital technology. This transformation enables artists, dancers, and dance instructors to create, distribute, and monetize their work independently through online platforms. The literature review and conceptual synthesis are organized into four sections: (1) types of dance careers in the digital era, (2) revenue opportunities and emerging business models, (3) key challenges related to income stability, health and well-being, technology, and intellectual property, and (4) integrated skill development pathways for sustainable careers. The article indicates that platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram have reduced production and distribution costs while enhancing audience reach. However, they also expose professionals to algorithmic volatility, digital workload, and copyright risks. The main proposal of the article is to elevate the four competencies: artistic and dance skills, pedagogy and learning management, digital and new media literacy, and entrepreneurial/personal branding, alongside policy support, digital infrastructure, and creator rights protection mechanisms. This approach aims to enable dance to develop into a stable profession with a good quality of life and to create long-term cultural and economic value.