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Professional Performer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Great Escape Parks

Entertainment Performer

Queensbury, NY · On-site

$16/hr

Entertain park guests in a professional manner, and ensure a positive experience for every guest ... Must be at least 16 years old (Team Members under 18 will need a NYS child performer permit) * Must ...

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Great Escape Parks

Entertainment Performer

Queensbury, NY · On-site

$16/hr

Entertain park guests in a professional manner, and ensure a positive experience for every guest ... Must be at least 16 years old (Team Members under 18 will need a NYS child performer permit) * Must ...

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Professional Performer information

What is the difference between Professional Performer vs Dancer?

AspectProfessional PerformerDancer
CredentialsVaries; often includes acting, singing, or specialized trainingTypically requires dance training or certifications
Work EnvironmentStage, film, television, live eventsStage, studio, touring performances
Industry UsageBroadly used across entertainment sectorsPrimarily in dance and performing arts
Search & ComparisonOften compared for versatility and skillsCompared for dance expertise and training

While both roles involve performing arts, a Professional Performer encompasses a wide range of skills including acting, singing, and dancing, and works across various entertainment mediums. A Dancer specializes specifically in dance and typically requires dance-specific training. The choice depends on whether the focus is on dance or broader performance skills.

What are the career paths for performers?

Performers can pursue various career paths including stage acting, musical theater, film and television acting, dance, circus arts, and voice-over work. They may work as freelancers, join entertainment companies, or become part of touring productions, often developing specialized skills and building a professional portfolio to advance their careers.

What is a professional performer?

A professional performer is someone who entertains audiences through skills such as acting, singing, dancing, or other forms of live or recorded performance. These individuals are paid for their work and often perform in theaters, on television, in movies, or at live events. Professional performers may specialize in a particular area, like theater, music, or dance, and often undergo extensive training and practice. Their work requires talent, dedication, and the ability to engage and connect with audiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Performer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Performer, you need strong technical abilities in your chosen discipline (such as acting, singing, or dancing), formal training, and often a relevant degree or conservatory experience. Familiarity with industry-standard audition platforms, rehearsal software, and sometimes union memberships (like SAG-AFTRA or Actors’ Equity) are important. Outstanding performers also possess resilience, adaptability, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills for connecting with audiences and collaborating with creative teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for consistently delivering compelling performances, adapting to varied roles, and sustaining a successful career in a competitive industry.

How to get a job as a performer?

To get a job as a performer, build a strong portfolio or demo reel showcasing your skills, gain experience through auditions, open mics, or local performances, and network with industry professionals. Many performers also pursue relevant training or certifications and seek opportunities through casting agencies, talent agencies, or online platforms dedicated to performance arts.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

Professional performers, such as top-tier actors, musicians, and athletes, can earn $500,000 or more annually through salaries, endorsements, and performances. Success in these roles often depends on reputation, skill level, and market demand, with some earning significantly higher through contracts and brand deals.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Professional performers, such as top-tier actors, musicians, and athletes, can earn over $1 million annually through salaries, endorsements, and performances. Success in these roles often requires exceptional talent, visibility, and years of experience, with income varying widely based on popularity and market demand.

What are some common challenges Professional Performers face when working in live productions?

Professional Performers in live productions often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to unexpected changes during performances, maintaining vocal and physical stamina through rigorous rehearsal and show schedules, and managing nerves or stage fright. Collaboration is essential, as performers must work closely with directors, stage managers, and fellow cast members to ensure seamless performances. Building resilience and strong communication skills helps performers successfully navigate these challenges and deliver consistent, high-quality shows.
What cities are hiring for Professional Performer jobs? Cities with the most Professional Performer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Performer jobs? The most popular types of Performer jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Performer jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Performer jobs include:
Professional Performer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Performer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Performer 2026

Performer 2026

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

SEASONAL POSITION
Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
Currently Casting for ALL EVENTS for 2026 - Audition Required
Busch Gardens Entertainment is seeking talented candidates with diverse professional backgrounds who will command the stage for the 2026 season!
We are currently casting for Spring and Summer, Howl-O-Scream, and Christmas Town 2026 events! Employment opportunities range from 2-10 months.
Seeking:
  • Vocalists - Pop/rock and musical theatre vocalists. Some roles require movement/dance ability.
  • Musicians - Experienced musicians who play brass, woodwind, percussion, guitar, bass, strings, flute/Irish whistles, or keys. Some roles require movement ability.
  • Dancers - Strong technical dancers who are trained in the style of jazz. Hip hop, partnering skills, and advanced tap ability a plus.
  • Costume Characters - Character hosts, studio characters, and characters that dance.
  • Stilt Walkers - Experienced stilt walkers who are comfortable with guest interactions and have strong performance qualities. Movement/dance ability a plus.
  • Interactive Actors - Energetic performers with improve abilities and are comfortable with guest interactions. Movement/dance ability a plus.

Audition Process:
Please email a performance reel highlighting your talents to bgwauditions@seaworld.com with the subject line "2026 Submission." In the body of the email, please indicate which discipline(s) you are submitting for. Please note performance reels will not be reviewed without a completed employment application, so please submit your application prior to emailing your performance reel. If selected, instructions and additional information will be emailed to you.
What you get to do:
  • Perform top notch quality shows for thousands of guests!
  • Be Pert of award-winning theatrical performances while maintaining show integrity.
  • Work with World Renowned Directors and choreographers.
  • Opportunities exist for leadership roles per show (i.e., Dance, Vocal, Music Captain)
  • Build lifelong friendships and be part of a legendary Entertainment family!
  • Perform in stage shows, parades, meet-and-greets, special events, and any other type of event or performance as assigned by leadership.
  • Entertain our guests in a variety of ways and in keeping with a specified skill set as shown through an audition (i.e., singer, dancer, musician, et. al.), with excellent showmanship and storytelling skills.
  • Participate in all rehearsals and developmental activities as assigned.
  • Consistently and expertly execute stage direction and show content as directed by leadership.
  • Enthusiastically represent the park by displaying a positive attitude, high level of energy, and a commitment to quality entertainment.
  • Openly accept performance feedback and critique, adapt accordingly, and commit to continual improvement and a guest-focused attitude.
  • Provide specialized equipment for your specific talent as well as demonstrate knowledge of specific tools and vocabulary used in your specialty (i.e., a musical instrument and sight reading for musicians, etc.).
  • Work and perform both indoors and outdoors, in extreme temperatures and weather conditions, in dark and/or confined spaces, and in unique venues of all types and sizes.
  • Execute pre-show and post-show backstage duties as outlined in the daily schedule, including maintaining the cleanliness of rehearsal, green room, and performance venues as assigned.
  • Assist other departmental teams with projects as needed, such as laundry, venue tasks, and more.
  • Ensure adherence to the safety procedures that accompany this position, including but not limited to, safety trainings and initiatives, venue and space guidelines and restrictions, and any direction given by department or park leadership.
  • Be respectful of all ambassadors and guests at all times, especially while engaging in any of the duties described herein, and refrain from any behavior that could be considered harassment, as per SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment company policy.
  • Participate in other duties as assigned that support park and departmental goals and objectives, including additional show or event product, special events, administrative duties, and any other tasks or duties deemed necessary by Entertainment leadership.
  • Understand that updates to this job description can happen at any time as policies and procedures change, that this may be done without formal notification, and that the expectation is to take on these new policies, procedures, and duties willingly and productively.

What it takes to succeed:
  • We look for trained and experienced performers who can also tell a story through their performance. Must have great showmanship!
  • Must be a team player and have a positive attitude.
  • Knowledge of specific tools and vocabulary used in your talent specialty, including but not limited to, sight reading.
  • Ability to provide any specialized equipment used for your specific talent (i.e., musical instrument)
  • Full availability for the anticipated length of employment and flexibility in schedule.
  • Must be at least 16 years of age
  • Must submit an email with a video reel showcasing your talents. If (Note: your application will not be considered without video reel submission).
  • Video requirements may include song, dance, movement, script memorization, role playing, comedic improvisation, and miming as necessary.
  • Work a flexible schedule based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts, as well as nights, weekends, and holidays. (Note: Time off and availability must be communicated and confirmed prior to hiring).
  • Previous experience in the fields of performing arts (theatre, dance, vocal performance, etc.), athletics, or other live entertainment preferred.
  • Be able to positively interact with guests and ambassadors of all ages, different cultural backgrounds and/or languages, individuals with special needs, and other diverse groups.
  • Strong verbal communication skills.
  • Stand, walk and/or sit for prolonged periods of time.
  • Flexibility in placement, which will depend on business needs and career development opportunities.

What else is important:
  • Be able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
  • Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
  • Be able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat. Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors, and cold/heat temperature extremes.
  • Work a flexible schedule/hour based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Be flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:
  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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