Cost of living is generally lower than in the West.

Salaries are much lower too.

You’re unlikely to be able to save money to bring home when your employment ends.

Most companies are reluctant to reveal exact figures, but we understand €350.00 per month take-home pay is fairly typical.

Some companies offer benefits in kind (see table)

Before signing your contract you should:

1. Check the exact amount of deductions from your pay packet and what they cover (for example, income tax, national insurance).
2. In some countries the tax system is still under revision and changes from year to year. It’s as well to make sure what applies when you sign up.
3. Find out whether there are extra taxes payable later for which you must save
4. Ask what benefits the company offers (for example, free accommodation, specialised health cover)
5. Ask: does the contract include paid holiday? Performance fees?
6. Many E. European countries are now EU members (see Useful Links page) and freedom of movement applies…
   • this means you should be able to take up a job as you would in your own country
   • but in a minority of cases, such as Croatia, there are still mutual restrictions and you will require a Visa to work there (see contact in Helpful Links page)

If you decide you can live on the pay and conditions offered: In most Eastern European companies you acquire invaluable experience.

The majority are keen to preserve tradition and continue to present the classics… …but growing Western influence means new and modern works are being added to repertoires.

Larger companies, such as the Romanian National Ballet, can have up 75 dancers. Provincial companies are usually smaller, but offer their dancers greater opportunities for solo work.