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How to Become An Entertainer

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What is a Entertainer

An entertainer performs for audiences using acting, singing, dancing, comedy, or variety skills. It is one of the most creative careers around, with work in theatres, festivals, film sets, and corporate events. Every show is a chance to connect with people and share something special.

In this role, entertainers spend a lot of time rehearsing and refining their craft. They learn lines and cues, work under a director or choreographer, and prepare for auditions. Being able to adapt is key, as work can shift across very different settings each week.

Day-to-day tasks include auditioning, rehearsing, performing, and building an online presence. Many entertainers travel between venues and take part in media to grow their audience. Working well with directors, fellow performers, and crew is part of every great career.

The path into entertainment takes hard work, but the rewards are real. Entertainers get to do what they love, connect with audiences, and be part of a creative scene. With the right training and persistence, a great career in entertainment is within reach.

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Career Outlook for Entertainer

The entertainment industry in Australia offers a vibrant career path for skilled performers. About 1,300 people work as Entertainers and Variety Artists in Australia, according to Your Career (2025). The broader group of actors, dancers, and other entertainers totals around 8,400 workers (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025).

Most entertainers work part-time. Only 33% work full-time (Your Career, 2025). Full-time workers average 46 hours per week. The median age is 32 years, showing the field’s appeal to younger workers. Future demand is rated as moderate.

NSW and Victoria hold the most opportunities. They account for around 62% of the national workforce (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Work is often project-based or gig-based. Building a strong network and keeping skills sharp are key to a lasting career.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become an Entertainer

Step 1: Discover your performance specialty

Start by exploring different forms of entertainment such as acting, singing, dancing, comedy, or variety performance. Take local classes or workshops to try different styles. Knowing your strengths helps you choose the right training pathway. Attend live performances and community theatre to see the industry in action.

Step 2: Complete the Certificate II in Creative Industries (CUA20220)

Enrol in the Certificate II in Creative Industries (CUA20220) at a TAFE or registered training organisation. This course takes around six months full-time and covers core performance skills. For a deeper VET pathway, complete the Diploma of Musical Theatre (CUA50220) at a TAFE or RTO. This takes 18 months to two years and builds skills in voice, dance, and stagecraft. A Bachelor of Performing Arts at an Australian university takes three years. It covers technique, performance theory, and professional practice.

Step 3: Build real performance experience

Take part in community theatre, student productions, open mic nights, or local dance recitals. These help you grow as a performer and start building a portfolio. Create a showreel or performance video that shows your range. Collect references from directors and fellow artists to support future auditions.

Step 4: Join the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA)

The MEAA is Australia’s union for performers and entertainment professionals. Joining gives you access to industry rates, contracts, and safety guidance. It also connects you with other performers and networks across Australia. Visit meaa.org to learn about membership options for new performers.

Step 5: Audition actively and keep developing

Start auditioning for roles in theatre, film, television, events, and online platforms. Each audition is a learning experience, no matter the outcome. Working with an agent is helpful. They know where the work is and can arrange auditions on your behalf. Stay curious, keep training, and build on every performance experience.

What does an Entertainer do?

An entertainer’s typical day mixes preparation, performance, and professional development. Most days start with rehearsals, learning lines, cues, or choreography under the guidance of a director. They may also attend auditions, meet with agents, or travel to a venue for a show. In the evening, many step onto a stage or set to perform for an audience. Whether at a theatre, a festival, or a corporate event, each day brings fresh challenges and new chances to connect.

Tasks

An entertainer’s daily work is as varied as the performances they deliver. They rehearse, audition, travel, and perform, all in pursuit of their next great show. Each task helps them build their craft and push their career forward.

  • Learn lines, speeches, and cues: prepare by memorising scripts and cues for a smooth delivery.
  • Rehearse under guidance: work with directors and choreographers to refine performances and develop characters.
  • Portray roles: act out parts and bring characters to life for live or filmed audiences.
  • Perform for audiences: deliver acts, stunts, or musical performances in theatres, clubs, and events.
  • Give speeches: present motivational or informative talks at conferences and events.
  • Create performance routines: develop and deliver unique acts that showcase individual talent.
  • Audition and travel: attend auditions and travel between venues to find and deliver new work.

Skills for Success

Being an entertainer takes more than raw talent. Skills need to be built through regular practice and training. Acting, singing, dancing, or comedy all need hard work to reach a pro level.

Good communication is a must. Great entertainers know how to read a room and connect with their audience. They show emotions clearly and match their energy to the moment.

Other key traits include the ability to adapt, confidence, and teamwork. Many shows rely on working well with directors, crew, and fellow performers. Stamina is also key, as rehearsals and shows can be long and hard.

Skills & Attributes

  • Performance skills (acting, singing, dancing, or variety art)
  • Creativity and original thinking
  • Verbal communication and stage presence
  • Adaptability across different venues and audiences
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Time management and self-discipline
  • Confidence and physical stamina
  • Ability to learn lines, cues, and choreography
  • Networking and relationship-building
  • Resilience and persistence
  • Understanding of audience engagement
  • Basic technical knowledge (sound, lighting, staging)
  • Improvisation skills

Average Salaries

In Australia, entertainers earn a median of around $88,000 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This is based on a median weekly rate of $1,692 for actors, dancers, and other entertainers. Entry-level performers can expect to earn around $55,000 a year, while experienced entertainers may earn $130,000 or more.

min $55 K

max $130 K

av $88 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson
Laura Atkinson

Explore career guides by Laura Atkinson. Practical how-to-become advice on qualifications, skills, salary and job outlook across Australia.