Variety shows – diverse entertainment with glamour factor

If you are skilled in singing and dancing and have acting and acrobatic abilities, variety shows could be the right thing for you – because this special form of performance combines numerous arts on one stage. But even if your repertoire only includes one of the above-mentioned skills, you can still impress in a variety show...

The nature and characteristics of variety shows

The most distinctive feature of variety shows is the mixture of different art forms. The program borrows from theater, circus, and cabaret, appealing to many interests at the same time. The individual performances are not related to each other; each is a self-contained presentation. For this reason, the performers do not have to master all forms of expression, but can focus entirely on their core competencies. They can appear as

- acrobats.
- jugglers.
- magicians.
- sword swallowers.
- burlesque dancers.
- comedians.
- singers.
- mimes.

An overarching theme and the so-called compère ensure that the whole thing does not degenerate into a mere revue of numbers. He moderates the program items and bridges minor breaks that may arise due to set changes, costume or prop changes, etc.

Origins and distinguishing features of variety shows

This colorful sequence of acts has its roots in traveling troupes. On their tours between larger towns, they often stopped at taverns, where the artists gave small performances in exchange for food and lodging. Their mostly unplanned performances took place between the dining guests, which is still reflected today in the seating arrangement at variety shows: unlike in classical theater, there are no rows of chairs. The audience takes their seats at loosely grouped tables, where they are also served during the performance. Another difference to plays is the lack of a dramaturgical framework. Each performance speaks for itself and can be omitted, swapped or replaced if necessary.

Right in the middle of it instead of just watching

Variety ensembles still aim to entertain their guests today – and rarely do they succeed as well as with time travel. It is no coincidence that the performances, complete with costumes and props, are reminiscent of bygone eras such as the Fin de Siècle, the Golden Twenties, or the disco era of the 1970s. To complete the impression, the audience is encouraged to adopt the style of the announced show and dress up in costume as well. Alternatively, the compère has suitable accessories available at the entrance with which visitors can complement or accentuate their everyday clothing. In this way, performers and audience members merge into a variety show community for the duration of the performance and can enjoy the special nature of this stage show even more.

You as a variety artist at starboxx

Would you also like to participate in this unique form of performance? Then first become part of our talent pool and let interested parties discover your individual skills! We look forward to paving the way for you to various variety stages through our agency services.