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From ancient times to the present day, human beings have always
craved entertainment. Whether it be Greek tragedy and comedy in open-air
amphitheaters or shadow and puppet plays in the East, people have always sought
out ways to be amused and distracted from their daily lives. However, the nature
of entertainment has evolved over time and has become a highly organized
business in most modern countries, offering an overwhelming variety of options
to satisfy every possible taste.
Unlike activities such as indoor games or amateur theatricals, entertainment
implies non-participation by the audience. From cabaret to ballet, from radio
and television to the opera and the circus, from the cinema to the variety show,
and from the comedian to the symphony concert, modern entertainment provides a
wide array of choices that appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. In
multicultural cities like Singapore, traditional performances from different
races add to the diverse mix of entertainment offerings.
The glamour and glitter of the entertainment industry are especially attractive
to young people. The famous "pop" stars of today become idols for adolescents
who emulate their fashion sense and dream of achieving fame and fortune
themselves. However, only a small minority of talented hopefuls succeed in
breaking into the world of entertainment. Even for those who do, the real
challenge lies in staying relevant and innovative. Television is a voracious
consumer of scripts, and comedians cannot afford to repeat the same jokes twice.
Achieving long-term success in entertainment demands rigorous training and
consistent hard work, whether in a drama or ballet school, a music academy, or
as part of a professional script-writing team.
Despite the allure of entertainment, the life of a professional entertainer is
not an easy one. The pay is often unequal, with trained actors receiving less
than their less skilled but more popular counterparts. Professional entertainers
face periods of unemployment and financial hardship, with few able to save for
retirement. They are also exposed to moral temptations and corrupting influences
that most of us are fortunate enough to avoid. Despite these challenges, the
world of entertainment continues to attract and inspire dedicated professionals,
who are driven by a deep love for their craft.
In conclusion, the world of entertainment has an enduring appeal that transcends
time and culture. From ancient Greek amphitheaters to modern-day cinema and
television, people have always sought out ways to be entertained. While the
industry has become more complex and competitive, it still provides
opportunities for talented individuals to showcase their skills and achieve
success. Despite the hardships and challenges that come with the profession, the
world of entertainment remains an irresistible force that continues to captivate
and inspire audiences around the world. |
