Entertainers perform for audiences on stage, in cabarets, in comedy shows and at festivals.


Working Hours

45–47

hours per week

Career Area

Actors, entertainers and presenters

View related courses

Day-to-day tasks

As an entertainer, you would:

  • perform in front of live audiences
  •  create and rehearse new material
  •  promote your act
  •  attend auditions
  •  maintain equipment, costumes and props
  •  deal with your finances and administration

Skills needed

  • persistence and determination
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • to enjoy working with other people
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • the ability to understand people’s reactions
  • knowledge of media production and communication
  • the ability to work well with others
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • volunteering
  • applying directly
  • a specialist course run by a private training organisation

Career progression

With experience, you could move into related areas like:

  • entertainment agent work
  •  talent spotting
  •  venue management
  •  TV, radio or online presenting