OVERVIEW
Stage fright is what a person experiences when nervously coming
before an audience. Anyone who feels a form of fear when facing an
audience may experience this condition. All the work is done; rehearsals have passed; and the time comes when the lights go up, the curtain moves aside and the stage awaits. Then fear moves in. Actors aren't the only ones who may suffer from stage fright. Public speakers, musicians, models, teachers, presenters and other professionals might, too. Stage fright is a form of anxiety that can be helped with multiple techniques, but recognizing the levels of the condition is a first step.
MILD
A lot of people in the performing arts get a little nervous before a show or concert. Speakers may feel a general jitteriness, too. Dry mouth and cold hands may present. Sometimes, this serves to helps the artist or speaker to focus. Other times, it can be distracting and unproductive, with unfavorable results. Forgetfulness or clumsiness may occur. Typically, once a person moves past the minor jitters, he'll get into the swing of the speech or performance, confidence returns swiftly, and the audience becomes a source of support.
Photo: Big Performance; credit: Debra J. Rigas
MODERATE
If the slight nervousness doesn't dissipate, the sensation of butterflies in the stomach builds, and can lead to possible sweating or nausea. A ballerina hesitates too long, or the presenter knocks over a key piece of equipment because he begins to tremble or shake. If not controlled or reversed at this stage, things can rapidly decline into major discomfort for everyone involved. If the symptoms abate, or the individual manages to carry on, equilibrium will soon be restored and the incident passes with moderate embarrassment.
SERIOUS
When an audience is very large or includes VIPs or dignitaries, some people feel exceptionally nervous and may move into full blown anxiety. Symptoms could include stomach cramps or vomiting, heavy perspiration, headache, inability to focus and mounting fear that may disrupt the program or event. Deep breathing, drinking a glass of water, and having someone help review lines or a speech will help shift the focus. Not everyone pulls out of this stage, but many do.
TERROR
The worst level of stage fright is terror--when someone completely freezes. She is unable to move, speak or respond. Focus dissolves into a black cloud of fear. Nothing helps, except to wait in hopes the condition passes, or until the person is removed from the circumstances and setting. Such extreme fright may arise suddenly just before going onstage, or at some point during the performance. In either case, everything stops. Audiences shuffle in their seats. The presenter or actor may faint or black out, or might just need assistance off the platform. Psychological support would be advised.
Anyone suffering from extreme fear can find excellent resources available to help,
whether for a stage performance or flying, or fear of animals and so forth. The work
required is discerning deeper causes of emotional discomfort can help an individual regain self-confidence.
Supportive family members are needed at such times. Ridicule and judgment do not help.
Love and gentleness do.
TIPS
- Practice deep breathing before going onstage.
- Remember to pause periodically.
- Remember you are a talented, capable and intelligent person.
- Affirm your knowledge in your mind, and trust yourself.
- Laugh to lossen up - before going on, or at a suitable breaking point.
- Focus on an area above the heads of the audience.
- Include your audience as you get more relaxed - the members appreciate you.
- Don't sweat the small stuff.
- Remember, on the pie of life, your time onstage is just a tiny slice.
REFERENCES AND RESOURCES
