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Useful experience for entertainers includes:

• public speaking
• theatre sports and debating
• acting, dancing or singing
• other experience performing in front of an audience
• artistic or creative work.

Entertainers may do some or all of the following:

• write and research performance routines
• rehearse their acts
• design and dress in costumes to suit their performances
• perform their acts in front of an audience
• record and edit their videos and photos for social media
• promote and publicise their acts.

Few opportunities for entertainers

It is difficult to get work as an entertainer in New Zealand because the performing arts industry is small.

Many entertainers do a second job to supplement their income.

Your chances of getting a job are best if you network regularly with industry contacts.

According to the Census, 696 entertainers worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Most entertainers work for themselves

Most entertainers are self-employed and work on contract for businesses such as entertainment events companies.

Entertainers usually specialise in one role, such as:

Acrobat

Acrobats use trapezes to perform feats of balance and agility, often high off the ground.

Aerial Dancer and Circus Artist

Aerial dancers and circus artists perform dances and feats, sometimes above audience members heads.

Clown

Clowns use physical performance and humour to entertain audiences.

Comedian

Comedians use humour to entertain audiences.

Hypnotist

Hypnotists use the power of suggestion to persuade their subjects to amuse an audience.

Magician

Magicians use illusion and sleight of hand to perform magic tricks.

Entertainers need to be:

• observant
• able to communicate ideas and feelings
• outgoing, confident and comfortable working in front of an audience
• able to deal with negative feedback
• adaptable, as they need to be able to respond to the audience
• disciplined and motivated
• patient and persistent enough to perfect their act.