Dancer's Toolkit

Virginie Mécène is a native of France with dual citizenship in the United States. A former Principal Dancer with the Martha Graham Dance Company (1994–2006), she has danced with multiple other dance companies. At the Martha Graham Center, U.S.A., her positions include Director of Graham 2 (2007–present), Director of the Graham School (2007–2015), and Programs Director (2015–present). She teaches and restages works at multiple national and international conferences. Her choreographic works have garnered acclaim in some of the most prestigious venues in the world, such as the New York City Center in New York City and the Palais Garnier in Paris.

'Virginie Mécène takes us through the many possibilities and pathways for pursuing a career in dance through history, current companies, auditions, employment, education, and training. Infused by her experiences and perceptions as a performer, director, choreographer, and educator, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of the wonder filled world of dance as a way of life.”Emiko Tokunaga, Author of An American Japanese Dancer, and Yasuko Tokunaga, former Director of Dance, Boston Conservatory, Co-Artistic Directors of Tokunaga Dance Ko, USA'The Dancers’ Toolkit: A Step-by-Step Guide for Navigating Your Dance Career offers tons of important advice, including insights into diverse dance career pathways. In her book, Virginie Mécène provides all the information necessary for dancers to learn how to navigate their careers and make informed decisions about their professional paths while building strategies to thrive. Whether you are an emerging or experienced dancer, you'll learn and be inspired. I highly recommend this book.'Janine Beckles, Associate Artistic Director and dancer at PHILANDCO! Dance Company, USA'As the dance landscape continues to change, it is important for artists to have resources to assist them in selecting training programs and building their professional dance careers. This book provides valuable insight into the many facets of a professional dance career regardless of where an artist is on their dance journey.'Melanie Person, Co-Director of the Ailey School, Director of the Ailey/ Fordham BFA-Program, Ballet Department Chair, USA'The Dancer’s Toolkit reminds us that mastery in dance isn’t built overnight – it’s forged through patience, persistence, and a deep commitment to growth. The chapter on training offers both encouragement and practical wisdom, guiding dancers to trust the process and embrace the long road toward excellence. It’s a wonderful reminder that giving your craft the time it deserves is the key to unlocking your full potential.'Jamar Robert, International Choreographer, former dancer at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, USA

• Part 1: Training 1. Getting Solid Training and the Importance of Continuing Training 2. Where to Train? 3. Training and Dancing with a Disability 4. Somatic Practices Part 2: At Work 5. Dance Career Avenues 6. Where and How to Find a Job 7. Social Media and You! 8. Touring 9. Work Ethic 10. Working at Another Job While on Contract or Between Contracts 11. Technical Rehearsal 12. Performance 13. Layoff Time 14. Be Part of the Broad Dance Community 15. Working Abroad and Visas 16. Pieces of Advice on Relocating Part 3: The Business Side of Your Dancing 17. Contracts 18. Your Finances Part 4: Healthy Body and Mind 19. Preventing Injuries 20. Injuries 21. Recovering from an Injury 22. Take Care of Your Mind 23. Eating Healthy Part 5: Dancing Through Life 24. Dancing and Parenting 25. Dancing Through Time 26. Career Transition