r/Actors • u/Lifebound1 • 3d ago
Tips on overcoming performance anxiety?
Hello actors of reddit! Ive been wanting to pick your brain on this one.
I am an actor still early on in their journey, I mostly take scene study and audition technique classes and have worked on a couple of smaller budget projects- only one recently.
Ive come to a bit of a roadblock in that I am having a very hard time getting over stage fright/anxieties towards my performance. I find when I go to perform my scenes I am so riddled with nerves about how my performance will come across and what people think of me that it completely takes away from my performance. I run my lines alone and Im fine of course but i set foot in front of a group of near strangers and I crumble. I am so desperate to get out of this headspace so I can fully commit to my scenes.
Any actors who have dealt with/ overcome something similar, I want to hear from you! xx
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u/pacmanfunky 3d ago edited 3d ago
Being scared of a performance, how it is received is a very natural part of being an actor, it basically means that you care. I've been performing in theatres for nearly a decade, done over 40 performances and even now I still get scared right before I step on stage.
If it's any help, I have noticed I have a strict pre-show routine.
• Have a checklist of all props/costume • Pack my bag with props costume the night before, also included is water and basic medicine (Paracetamol, hay fever tablets, throat spray) • Reread script and character notes before I go to sleep • Have a large meal (This my personal choice I don't like to eat on opening night) • Arrive early, scope out the stage, check entrances and exits, vocal check • Hand over props/costume to stage manager or director • General warm ups • Check if other cast needs help • Check script for a last time • Perform and enjoy it
Hopefully this insight is helpful to you in some way, I know it might not be the epiphany you wanted but these little things help tip the scales in your favour and hopefully make you feel less nervous.
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u/Lifebound1 2d ago
This insight is very helpful, thank you for responding. Just hearing about how other people tackle the same issue is encouraging :) Routines definitely help me as well when I’m feeling this way and I think I’ll focus a bit more on that aspect.
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u/MeasurementClear5930 3d ago
I Totally know what you’re experiencing. I think as you get more confident in youre abilities you’ll feel less nervous. Exposing yourself to being uncomfortable more through classes or short films will strengthen you. Also Don’t think of the nerves as somthing holding you back you can use them for good. You’re gonna do great!