Informing and Entertaining

Abstract

In this chapter we have a playwright (representing a long and honourable tradition of work across history), a marketing manager, production manager and children’s entertainer working within the opportunities afforded by recent developments in information and communication technologies. All four stories are broadly influenced by developments in technology as the medium for the production and/or promotion of their jobs. Work at informing and entertaining others affords opportunities for self-employment, personal expression and creativity. Indeed, three of the individuals presented in this chapter work for themselves in addition to having another paid occupation. These choices are influenced by the need for economic security. Informing and entertaining can therefore be risky work. Three of the narratives discuss the fear of taking the leap into the unknown and the uncertainty of managing one’s own business. For others there is risk in the presentation of oneself and the scrutiny of public critique.