El Scenic Fear It is a common reaction that affects many people and artists in different situations in their professional career. It is a feeling of fear and anxiety that arises when having to speak or present in public.
Although stage fright seems like a momentary and unimportant reaction, it can create an uncomfortable and uncomfortable situation for those who experience it. Therefore, it is important to learn to control it, using the best tools to combat it.
Throughout this article you will discover what exactly stage fright is, what its causes and effects are, as well as tips and techniques to avoid it.
What is stage fright?
It is a emotional and physical response to exposure to a specific audience. This reaction arises when the person perceives this situation as a threat to their ability to perform and self-esteem.
Exposure to the judgment of others causes a feeling of vulnerability and insecurity which activates the stress response system, generating symptoms such as sweating, trembling or difficulty speaking and concentrating.
Causes and effects of stage fright
Stage fright can appear for different reasons, many of them related to various social and psychological factors. The main causes are:
- Fear of judgment. The fear of being judged negatively by the audience can cause stage fright. People who experience it fear making mistakes or making a fool of themselves in front of the public.
2. Perfectionism. Perfectionism and pressure on oneself are the most common causes. The fear of making mistakes or not meeting the public's expectations generates a feeling of discomfort and insecurity that paralyzes artists.
3. Lack of experience. Lack of practice or experience speaking in public can cause nervousness and anxiety, increasing stage fright.
4. Past experiences or traumas. Negative experiences can influence a person's attitude and behavior when facing an audience, increasing the fear of experiencing a similar situation.
Stage fright not only has psychological effects, but also physical and emotional. Among the most significant and common effects we can find:
- Tachycardia
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Shaking
- Nausea
- Distress
- Low self-esteem
- Insecurity
- Loss of job and growth opportunities.
Techniques to manage and overcome stage fright
Currently, there are different techniques and practices that help combat and overcome stage fright, allowing artists to function and gain greater confidence on stage. Some of the most used are:
Breathing
Controlling your breathing before going on stage helps reduce stress and anxiety levels. Breathing in and out slowly through your nose and mouth calms your mind and body.
Relaxation techniques
Practicing some exercises such as yoga or meditation will help you prepare and train your mind for any challenge, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Preparation
One of the practices that most helps to overcome and combat stage fright is to be well prepared and rehearse your play or speech several times before the event. This way, you will be able to familiarize yourself with the script and achieve greater ease and confidence.
Face fear gradually
One of the best techniques to overcome stage fright is to confront it gradually. You can start by exposing yourself to small audiences and little by little increase audience size.
Examples and testimonials
Stage fright is a more common reaction than we think. Many have suffered this sensation during their artistic career. Celebrities like Adele, Emma Watson, Marilyn Monroe or Salma Hayek They have spoken publicly about their experience suffering from stage fright and their struggle to overcome this reaction and successfully continue performing. These examples show that this feeling of panic and insecurity can be overcome over time and by working with the most appropriate strategies.
Resources and professional support
Coping with stage fright is not always an easy task, but there are a wide variety of resources and support available to work on it.
Public speaking workshops
These courses are designed to provide tools and verbal expression techniques, body language and anxiety control to all artists and professionals.
Coaching
Un specialized trainer in oral expression will be able to provide you with the best personalized techniques and tools to overcome your stage fright.
Self-help books
There is a wide variety of books written by specialists and psychologists who will be able to provide you with the best techniques and tools to combat stage fright. Choose the one that best suits your needs and put into practice all the tips and suggestions that may help you.
At the University School TAI We prepare the artists of the future so that they can face all the challenges of the industry. With the Degree in Performing Arts and Audiovisual Interpretation You will learn the best techniques and tools to develop your talent, master the art of acting and combat all your fears on stage.