entertainer

An entertainer is a person who performs, with the goal of amusing, exciting, or provoking emotion in an audience. They may perform solo or with others, and work across a wide range of genres and media.

Common domains include live stage performance such as theatre, dance, comedy, magic, and circus; music performances; film and television acting; spoken word and storytelling; street and festival performances; and digital entertainment via streaming, web videos, and social media.

Skills for entertainers vary by discipline, but often include training in craft, timing, voice, movement, and crowd engagement. They regularly collaborate with writers, directors, producers, and crews. Careers depend on reputation, booking, management, unions, and market demand, and income can be highly variable.

The term encompasses a wide historical range, from ancient street performers to modern multimedia celebrities. It has evolved with technology, enabling self-publishing and direct audience access, while traditional venues such as theaters, cinemas, and broadcast networks remain important.

Entertainers often aim to entertain while reflecting cultures, shaping trends, and contributing to economies through performance, tourism, and media. They bear ethical responsibilities to audiences, performers, and the industry, including consent, safety, and appropriate content.