Pre-Stage Jitters?

No matter how well prepared a performer is, pre-stage jitters are very common and befall beginners and veteran actors alike.  If your child is having a hard time coping with performance anxiety, Kerry Hishon of Theatrefolk shares some pointers:

1. Apply yourself during and outside of rehearsals.  Practice your lines, cues, blocking, and dance routines; work on your voice and get the right amount of rest.  The more prepared you are, the more confident and comfortable you will be in your role.
2. If you are really worried about something going wrong, play it out in your head or with other cast members, and come up with solutions to solve the concern.
3. Perform breathing exercises, slowly inhale and fill up your abdominal cavity, then slowly exhale while contracting your abdomen.  Repeat this exercise as many times as you can till you feel calmer.
4. Sometimes writing down what is causing you anxiety can also be calming.  Writing grants you the opportunity to express your feelings; now allow yourself to let it go.
5. Remind yourself that the audience wants you to succeed and they are all there to root for you and have a great time.

Most audiences especially for youth performances are more than delighted to be there and are in awe of all the work that goes into the production.  They are proud of you even before you get on the stage and show them how hard you have worked on stage and behind the scenes.  Be in the moment and enjoy the show!

Read more:  Dealing with Nerves