What does a revue artist do? – Tasks and work environment
A revue artist combines acting, singing, dancing, and comedy to entertain audiences in stage performances, often with satirical or humorous elements. Tasks include interpreting scripts, improvising, rehearsing, and performing both solo and in ensemble. The environment is characterized by intensive rehearsals, evening and weekend work, and close collaboration with directors, choreographers, and other artists. The work often takes place in theaters, but tours and temporary appearances at events are also common.
Salary development over time
The salary for revue artists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,800 SEK, rising in 2023 to 34 700 SEK and reaching 37 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of about 10% over the period, with the largest raise occurring in the most recent year. This development can be partly explained by increased demand for performing arts, more digital productions, and generally higher salary expectations in the culture sector. Gender differences have been noticeable, with women now earning slightly more than men, reflecting some leveling in the industry. Salary ranges are also influenced by experience, workplace, and geographic area, although national trends dominate.
Revue artist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 37 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 28,100 SEK/month (female), 32,400 SEK/month (male)
- Highest salary: 43,600 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
- Hourly wage: 224 SEK
- Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 106%
- Regional differences: Small, but larger cities may offer higher salaries and more opportunities
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a revue artist varies, but a basic education in performing arts, theater, or music is often a prerequisite. Many supplement with specialized courses in improvisation, dance, and singing. Practical experience from amateur theater, revues, or musical projects is highly valuable and can sometimes outweigh formal education. The ability to collaborate and be flexible in different stage contexts is crucial.
- High school education: Arts program (3 years)
- Higher education: Theater or performing arts schools (2–4 years)
- Courses and workshops: Improvisation, dance, singing, comedy
- Internships: Participation in amateur revues, summer theater, or trainee positions
- Prerequisites: Stage experience, musicality, and good teamwork skills
Many revue artists have backgrounds in both music and theater, which makes them suitable for various types of stage productions – from classic revues to modern humor shows and musicals.
Common benefits and compensations
Extra pay for evening and weekend work is common, as are per diems during tours. Contracts often include pension contributions, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development through courses or workshops. Some employers also offer collective agreements and insurance to enhance financial security.
Competition and challenges
Competition for roles and assignments is high within the revue and performing arts industry, especially in larger cities where supply is greatest but so are applicants. Many opportunities are project-based or seasonal, requiring flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new work environments. Uncertainty around employment types and income means that many need multiple engagements to make a living full-time. The industry is also affected by economic cycles and audience interest, which can lead to fluctuations in demand.
Tips for aspiring revue artists
To succeed as a revue artist, it’s important to have strong stage presence and good improvisational skills, as unexpected situations often occur on stage. Being communicative and attentive makes it easier to collaborate in ensembles and create a positive atmosphere during rehearsals and performances. Creativity and the ability to quickly learn new texts or routines are valuable traits, especially in a field where the repertoire can vary from night to night. Building a broad network in the performing arts community and performing regularly in front of audiences is also beneficial. Continuously developing skills through courses and workshops is a worthwhile investment. Patience and perseverance are necessary to handle periods with fewer engagements but also to grow professionally.
Key facts about the revue artist profession
- Salary range: 28,100–43,700 SEK/month
- Average salary: 37 200 SEK/month
- Education level: High school or higher performing arts education
- Work form: Project-based, often seasonal or freelance
- Demand: 620 available jobs in the actor profession
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a revue artist can develop into taking larger roles, working as a director, or scriptwriter within revue or related performing arts. Some move on to musical productions, film, or TV, while others establish themselves as freelance artists or start their own productions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for revue artists, but within the actor profession, there have recently been 620 available jobs. Future prospects may be influenced by audience interest in performing arts and cultural investments, as well as the increasing digitization of the entertainment industry.
Frequently asked questions about revue artists
- What is the average salary of a revue artist?
- The average salary for a revue artist is 37 200 SEK per month.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for a revue artist?
- The highest salary is 43,700 SEK (male) and 43,600 SEK (female); the lowest salary is 32,400 SEK (male) and 28,100 SEK (female).
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn on average 38 100 SEK and men 35 900 SEK, which means women earn 106% of men's salaries.
- How does one become a revue artist?
- Through education in performing arts, participation in theater groups and revue productions, as well as ongoing skills development.
- What are the most common types of employment?
- Project-based engagements, seasonal employment, and freelance assignments are most common.
- What are the future prospects?
- No specific forecast exists, but within the actor profession, there are currently 620 available jobs.
- What education is required?
- High school arts education or higher performing arts education is most common, along with supplementary courses and internships.
