Embarking on a career as a Guest Act Entertainer or onboard Entertainer on cruise ships promises an unparalleled and thrilling experience, merging the joy of travel with the excitement of captivating audiences from diverse corners of the globe. It’s an platform to flaunt your talents while traversing the world on the open seas, crafting unforgettable moments and memories for passengers. In this post, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about living and working as an entertainer at sea.
Working aboard a cruise ship presents a golden opportunity to explore the world. Entertainers find themselves amidst multiple destinations, greeted by new ports of call almost daily. This perpetual change in scenery serves as a dynamic canvas for both work and leisure.
Cruise ships bring passengers from all walks of life and the globe. As an entertainer, you have to adapt to performing for a kaleidoscope of audience preferences and cultural backgrounds, rendering each show a distinct and gratifying experience
Versatility is the cornerstone for cruise ship entertainers. Whether you’re a vocalist, dancer, illusionist, comedian, or a visiting act – known as a “flyback” – the ability to tailor your performance to suit varied audiences and themes is key for success.
Additionally, onboard entertainers must acknowledge the need for flexibility, including rehearsals during unconventional hours such as while docked or late into the night. You might also be tasked with hosting daytime and evening entertainment schedules, enriching both your own and your guests’ experience.
Cruise ships boast an array of entertainment venues, from grand theatres to intimate lounges. Entertainers find themselves performing in diverse settings, each presenting its unique ambiance and challenges, all while benefiting from comprehensive technical support.
Accommodation aboard cruise ships may be cosy but often comfortable, with cabin steward services ensuring a pleasant stay. As a Cruise ship entertainer, you’ll typically share a cabin with one other entertainer within the crew quarters, offering an inside cabin view. Alternatively, you may be fortunate to enjoy an outside cabin with breathtaking ocean views. Guest “flyback” act entertainers usually
Cruise ship entertainers relish access to a plethora of onboard amenities, ranging from complimentary or discounted beverage packages to diverse dining options, fitness facilities, and recreational activities. Life onboard seamlessly blends work and leisure, offering a unique experience.
While the allure of travel is undeniable, the lifestyle can be daunting. Entertainers may grapple with bouts of homesickness and occasional isolation, particularly during extended contracts. However, a supportive team comprising the Cruise Director, assistant cruise director, stage manager, Staff Captain, and Crew Purser ensures a nurturing environment, with engaging events onboard and ashore fostering camaraderie among crew members.
Cruise ship contracts present opportunities for professional development and networking opportunities. Collaborating with fellow performers and taking the chance to dip into a diverse pool of talent can significantly enriches your skills and career path.
Contracts for Guest/Visiting Act Entertainers (“flybacks”) typically are contracted a brief duration, entailing performances followed by swift departures. Conversely, onboard Cruise ship entertainers might be contracted for a few weeks to several months.
Securing positions on cruise ships often entails rigorous audition processes. Successful candidates are bound by contracts which detail their roles, schedules, and money paid, which is all part of this type of industry.
Joining the entertainments industry of cruise ship entertainment, be it as a guest act “flyback” entertainer or onboard entertainer, promises an experience, adventure, cultural immersion, and the thrill of captivating international audiences. Whilst challenges may surface along the journey, the rewards – from exploring new horizons to honing your craft, forging lasting friendships, and curating unforgettable experiences.
This Post was written by our very own Tony Parkins a season professional in the entertainments industry, who has worked as both a Cruise Director and visiting act.
You can Find Tony Parkins
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