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Entertainer

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Entertainer

Entertainer Career Details

Entertainers include cabaret and nightclub singers and dancers, musicians, acrobats, jugglers, contortionists, street entertainers, children’s entertainers, mime artists and illusionists.

They may specialise in one area, such as a magic or circus performing. Alternatively, they may have several different skills which they combine to create a variety act, such as a stand-up comedian who also sings and plays the piano.

Most entertainers are on the books of one or more agents, who find work for them for a fee or commission. Some entertainers work seasonally for a holiday centre, organised children’s groups or workshops.

As well as actually performing, they spend a great deal of time researching new material, writing scripts or music and maintaining the equipment they use in their act.

Working Environment

Hours of work vary and are dependent on the type of work in which they are involved. Entertainers who perform in the evenings are likely to be working during the day; travelling, rehearsing or creating new material. Many entertainers work part-time or just at weekends, and have a daytime job.

Work can be indoors or outdoors, in environments ranging from a large, hot, smoky nightclub to a tiny platform on a windy seafront.

Full-time or seasonal entertainers spend long periods away from home.

Entertainer Related Skills

To be an entertainer you should:
  • be skilled in your chosen performance areas
  • be outgoing, self-confident and lively
  • enjoy performing in front of different types of audiences in different venues and conditions
  • be versatile and adaptable
  • be resilient and hard-working
  • be original in your ideas and presentation
  • be able to accept criticism and constructive ideas
  • be determined to succeed.

Entertainer Career Opportunities

Entertainers can work for variety shows, nightclubs, holiday centres, circuses, outdoor events, on cruise ships and at private parties.

The entertainment industry is very competitive. It can be difficult to find enough work to make a full-time career.

It may be possible to find work in films or TV. Some entertainers may be involved in promotional/ publicity work for organisations advertising products and services.

Advancement usually comes in the form of increased bookings, earnings and success.

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Entertainer related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

Not quite sure about a career as a Entertainer? Try our step-by-step career guide to reaching your chosen career.

Career Courses

Not quite qualified to be a Entertainer? Take a look at Postgraduate Entertainer courses, Undergraduate Entertainer courses, Adult learning Entertainer courses, our course browses or use our search form and find courses which will help you on your chosen career path.