How to overcome stage fright?
By luzarme
@luzarme (10)
Philippines
September 21, 2011 10:25pm CST
When I was a kid, I love to do stage plays and act in front of many people. However, as the days goes by, I really felt so nervous performing on stage. I really tried my best not feel it or ignore it, but I can't help but not to overcome the anxiety and the butterflies in my stomach. I really, really hate this feeling. I want to sing and to glorify God.
Is there anyone who could help me with this?
3 responses
@nanayangel (7879)
• Philippines
22 Sep 11
Hi there Luzarme!
I think lots of people get stage fright whenever they are about to speak or perform in front of an audience, especially if a lot of people are watching.
This is what I found from mahalo. You can visit their page for more useful information:
Step 1: Know the Symptoms of Stage Fright
The first step to overcoming stage fright is to know what the signs are so that you can identify it when it happens. Symptoms of stage fright can include tightening of the throat, parched mouth, upset stomach, cold and quivering hands, trembling and rapid pulse. In addition, out of the ordinary emotions or physical occurrences can signify stage fright.1
Step 2: Right Before You Hit the Stage
Be prepared. Make sure you're well rehearsed before your performance. You will only be more nervous if you don't feel completely ready to go. You might even try performing for a couple friends beforehand as a sort of dress rehearsal.2
Eat right. Don't chow down on any greasy fast food beforehand. It might upset your stomach even without the anxiety of having to go on stage.
Warm up. Whether you sing, speak, or play an instrument, you should warm up before you perform. This will ensure you are comfortable and at 100% from the first note of the show (or the first word of your speech).
Stretching beforehand will help keep you lose, especially if you're playing an instrument.
Vocal warm-ups aren't just for singers; you can stretch out those vocal chords to get ready for speaking, too.3 4
If there is no green room or backstage area at the venue, warm up at home before you leave.
Listen to music. Listening to music that will pump you up can help get you energized, confident, and in the zone. Conversely, listening to soothing music might be best to calm your nerves down.
Meditate. With meditation, it's all about the breathing. Learn some basic meditation techniques or other relaxation breathing exercises. This can help you focus while relieving tension.
Think positive. There's no reason to worry about mistakes. The more you think about messing up, the more likely you are to do it. Picture yourself succeeding and executing your performance flawlessly.
Exercise. Getting some exercise in beforehand can help you expend some of that nervous energy in a constructive way. Do some backstage push-ups or jumping jacks.
Do something silly. You're going to have to leave your inhibitions behind, so you can't worry about looking dumb. The best way to combat this insecurity is to do something that makes you feel silly or embarrassed backstage like making funny faces or dancing around. This can help you get over the feeling and realize that even making a fool of yourself isn't that bad.
Have a group pow-wow. If you're in a band or performing with a group of people, get together right before the show starts to help everyone get focused and on the same page.
Realize it's no biggie. Never forget that when it comes down to it, it's no big deal! You're there to have fun, and you will do your best. Even if it doesn't turn out to be your finest moment, it's not the end of the world.
Leave it all backstage. It's game timeāare you ready? Take a deep breath. This is when you have to leave all your baggage behind and just go out there and do it!
@greenline (14838)
• Canada
26 Sep 11
It is quite natural. Many people suffer from stage fright, but as they continue on and gain experience, it goes a way. Yes, as you gain experience, you become more confident and comfortable. So, don't worry. Just carry on, and you will be there !
@damned_dle (3942)
• Philippines
22 Sep 11
You need to have self-confidence. Have you seen the movie "The King's Speech"? You should watch it. It is a true story about how King George VI overcame his stuttering while public speaking.