Choreographers are people who design and direct routines for dance, gymnastic events, skating routines and other types of performing pieces. They may work with a solo dancer, a couple, or a large group of performers.

A large part of a choreographer's job is to make sure that the routine is pleasurable not only for the participants but for the audience and possibly judges, too. He or she must listen intently to the piece of music that is being used, and work out the timing and the feel of the different dance steps. A lot of time is spent inventing new dance moves and editing routines. They also work very closely with the dancers, teaching them by both example and by spoken instruction. A choreographer may spend weeks or months providing direction and encouragement to the dancers, directing practice, inventing and arranging the choreography, and of course making the necessary changes and tweaks to perfect the dance.

Needless to say, there is endless practice involved. A choreographer needs to make sure that the dance is perfect for the audience to see.

Choreographers teach more than just dance steps, they also help actors and singers develop their characters, selecting rhythm and pacing to enhance their performances. Most celebrities have a choreographer to create their signature visual image. This makes them a huge influence on every aspect of the mainstream spotlight. Choreographers need to have a very keen sense of who they are as an artist, but also what their target audience needs to see.