A stage name, or a screen name for film star, is a fictictious name used by performers and actors. People may take on a stage name because their real name is considered dull, amusing for the wrong reasons, or projects the wrong image; or because they wish to remain anonymous in relation to another sphere of work. In England, the actors' union Equity stipulates that no two members may have the same working name, and therefore actors are often forced to modifgy their name or take a new one.
Famous stage names include:
- Harry Houdini
- Nicki Minaj
- Elton John
- Lana Del Rey