PERFORMANCE SKILLS OF TV VARIETY SHOW HOSTS AND PROGRAM EFFECTS

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between television variety show hosts' performance skills and program effectiveness in the Chinese context, focusing on how specific techniques influence audience engagement and production quality. Through a mixed-methods approach combining content analysis of six representative programs (including Who's the Murderer, Sisters Who Make Waves, and National Treasure), social media metrics, audience surveys, and expert evaluations, we identify key patterns in effective hosting performance. The findings reveal that precise linguistic rhythm control increases audience retention by 30%, while strategic nonverbal communication enhances group dynamics and conflict resolution. An optimal humor frequency of 2-3 instances per minute emerges as most effective for sustained engagement, and host-program style congruence exceeding 80% boosts approval ratings by 45%. The research establishes four core competencies - observational acuity, emotional expressivity, role adaptability, and cultural literacy - as fundamental to successful hosting. These results contribute to media performance theory by introducing the concept of contextualized performance intelligence, which highlights the importance of adapting techniques to China's unique media environment. The study provides practical recommendations for host training programs and production teams, emphasizing scenario-based skill development and strategic host-program matching to enhance variety show quality and audience satisfaction.