What it takes to be a great entertainer

Performing on stage is one of the most satisfying pursuits one can ever indulge in. The butterflies that one feels before a performance, the thrill of performing in front of an audience, the euphoria that one feels when the audience calls for an encore; all this makes the life of an entertainer very fulfilling.

An entertainer could be doing anything creative - he could be a singer, musician, stand-up comedian or an MC. But although there are many entertainers today, few can qualify to be called great entertainers.

To be a great Entertainer you must always follow 6 rules:

1. The 90 second rule:
Always remember that your audience is very impatient. They are also very judgmental. So you need to start with a bang. Think of innovative ways to catch the audience's attention in 90 seconds or under.
2. Engage the Audience
3. Look relaxed but not lazy on stage
4. Stage presence should exude understated confidence. It warms the audience towards you. If you appear as too confident, the audience might give you a critical reception.
5. Learn by heart
6. Take cues only when necessary. Prepare the piece well. Audience loses connect when you keep going back to your cues. It should look like you are completely at ease with the topic even though you are slightly uncertain in your head.

​Apart from talent, one needs to connect with their audience on an interplanar level, each time they perform. Being able to talk well is good, but your stage presence matters a lot more.
 
Blog by Orget Sax