"Portfolio Careers" for Dancers

Sondra Forsyth | Apr 05, 2009 | 0

Jill Schulster, seen here as the Sugar Plum Fairy in 2008, is also co-owner of an NYC restaurant called JoeDoe.

Back in May of 2000 when I was the New York Dance Scene columnist on DanceArt.com, I wrapped up a post about day jobs and side jobs with this advice:  "Think of yourself as a successful entrepreneur instead of as a dancer who's patching together a living."  At the time, I hadn't heard the term "Portfolio Career" which was coined by the Irish author and business guru Charles Handy to describe people who embrace multiple professions.  Yet when I recently learned about Handy's concept, I realized that it's exactly what I was advocating.  (Hat tip to Bill Dyszel!)  If you treat each of your pursuits as a potential calling instead of just as a way of putting money in your pocket, they'll all fuel each other. You'll be better at everything you do and you won't be prone to burn-out.  Even the classic scenario of waiting table while you're taking class and going to auditions can be more than a stop-gap situation.  A case in point is ballerina Jill Schulster who has an active freelance performing career -- often with my company, Ballet Ambassadors -- and who has parlayed her years of waitressing into the co-ownership of a thriving New York City restaurant called JoDoe.  (While you're in NYC, don't miss a chance to have a meal there.  And tell them Sondra sent you!)

Get help finding your own Portfolio Career path after the jump!

Buying into the Portfolio Career mindset helps you put a positive spin on being gainfully employed at a second or third job in addition to your dancing.  You'll also be ready for your Second Act when the time comes to take your final bow.  True, one way to accomplish that goal is to gain experience in such non-performing dance jobs as teaching, choreography, and choreology.  Still, simultaneously establishing a foothold in one or more occupations outside the dance world can make for an uncommonly full and faceted life.  As someone with a dual career in journalism and dance, I highly recommend this route.  Sold?  Good!  Why not take advantage of the free services available at Career Transition for Dancers?  You don't have to wait until you're nearing the end of your performing days.  This venerable organization is dedicated to helping you all along the way.  Although based in New York City, CTFD has a national outreach program in 20 cities across the nation.  If your hometown isn't on the list yet, speak up!  In addition, CTFD conducts programs for students, pre-professionals, and professionals on their own turf.  (Teachers, studio owners, and company directors: e-mail info@careertransition.org for more information.)

The very best of luck as you look for vocations that can not only fatten your wallet and feed your soul while you're in your dancing prime but also -- as that famous song from "A Chorus Line" puts it -- "point you toward tomorrow."

Sondra

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