Entertainers create images, express ideas, and perform for audiences in theaters, film, radio, television, and a variety of other media. Many are seen on Hollywood screens and Broadway stages, but others are found in television studios, circuses, and local theaters and comedy clubs. Entertainers include workers as diverse as actors and actresses, clowns, comedians, and stunt, rodeo and aquatic performers.

A small number of entertainers achieve recognition as stars, and a few become well-known for frequent appearances in supporting roles or performances in local theatres. Most, however, struggle to find opportunities for their talent and must often take second jobs to make a living.

Many professional entertainers rely on agents or managers to find work, negotiate contracts, and plan their careers. Agents generally earn a percentage of the entertainer’s contract and therefore have a vested interest in helping them succeed.

Employment of all professionals in the entertainment industry is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2008. However, competition for jobs will be stiff and only the most talented will find regular employment.

Entertainers need talent, stage presence, confidence, creativity, persistence, and the ability to make words or actions come alive for an audience. They must also be able follow directions, easily memorize lines, and be able to endure irregular work hours and periods of unemployment.

Singing and dancing ability, as well as physical appearance, may factor into being selected for some roles.

Entertainers should be skilled in acting, singing, dancing, or other forms of entertainment, such as clowning or stunt performance.

Aspiring entertainers may also need other skills to support themselves between entertainment opportunities as they begin their careers. Prior to success in the entertainment field, many subsist on part-time or evening jobs, such as waiting tables, so they are free during the day to take bit speaking parts or work as extras in films and television shows.

Formal training is not a prerequisite for entertainers, but college drama programs and dramatic arts schools can add to an entertainer’s versatility, credibility, and experience. Training in acting, singing, and dancing is very useful, and modeling experience may be also helpful.

It is essential for entertainers to build a strong repertoire of roles and productions that demonstrate their talent and versatility. Experience, name recognition, and reputation are major factors in determining future opportunity and success.

Entertainers must be extremely committed to this profession, which may alternately include long, irregular hours and periods of unemployment. Work conditions can also be unpleasant. Repetitive rehearsals and tedious memorization of lines can be demanding. The stress of deadlines and personality conflicts can be draining.

Despite the difficulties, however, the lure of celebrity status, wealth, and excitement leads many individuals to continue pursuing careers in this industry.