Opening Night

Opening night anxieties can be very debilitating, but rest assured you’re not the only one affected; it’s more common than you can imagine. Feeling ill can range from an upset stomach to dizziness; a combination of nervousness and excitement are usually to blame for triggering these weird responses.

Even if you’ve performed before or you’re regularly deemed to be a calm person you may well find you have a physical reaction that strikes suddenly without warning.

A personal calming ritual or distraction devised by you to help settle yourself is often the best way to get through it.

Here are a few ideas:

Stretching – Whilst breathing out gently unfurl your spine by first placing your chin on your chest then curving your back as you bend forward to touch you toes. Rest for a moment and shrug your shoulders to loosen any tension. Now very carefully reverse the process gradually restacking your spine so you are upright and composed, whilst breathing in a filling your lungs. Your chin should be the last thing to move as you straighten up. Fill yourself with energy as you bring you stand up straight.

Breathing – Take deep breaths to fill your lungs and stabilise your posture.

Warm ups – Your voice is much like any other instrument and as such needs appropriate care and attention. See our voice warm up section for further guidance.

Focusing – Take time to focus on the part you are playing. Look at your clothes and allow yourself to drift in to the character you are playing. This can work whether you’re playing a chorus character or a principal role.

In short when waiting to go on stage on the opening night or indeed any night relax and prepare to enjoy yourself.