Firstly, most audiences won't care if you can do a five-beat weave. The best way to create a show the public can appreciate is by performing simple moves with good choreography and showmanship.
Creating a good show is still only the beginning. To make a living you need to promote yourself. We know performers who perform only the basic poi moves, but since they can entertain, market themselves, and talk to potential clients, they get lots of work (way more than we ever get).
If you want to improve your performance skills, explore the worlds of dance, circus, theatre, and busking. And don't settle for anything but the best. Track down quality! Expose yourself to world-class performances and ask questions.
Ultimately there is no clear path to follow. Poi dancing and fire spinning are niche genres that are too small to appeal to most entertainment agencies. Start brainstorming the places in your community that might want performances and contact them directly.
Also, think carefully before you quit your day job! There are very few full-time fire performers in the world, and some of them have stopped loving poi because it's become their job. You can definitely perform full time while still loving poi, but be patient!
As for pay: the average remuneration for a cabaret-style performance varies between countries and even cities within the same country. In some places it's typical to get $500USD for a gig, in others only $200USD or less. Find out what is typical and create performances that are worth every penny! Busking also varies hugely depending on the location, circumstances, and local culture. At the world's best busking festivals performers sometimes make $2,000USD a night. Other performers might only make $100.
Location, location, location: It does make a difference where you are. Some cities and countries support the arts, or any particular kind of art, more than others. Sometimes they do it so well that there is too much competition! There is no perfect place to be, but there is such a thing as a place with limited opportunities. The cities most popular with artists are sadly often not the places where you can get lots of paying work.
And lastly, don't feel like you need to fit into the normal way of doing things. The most successful people are those who create opportunities in addition to looking for them.
Enjoy and see you on stage!
