This week, two talented Sheena Galpin Vocal Studio singing students, Amalia and Nairi, are stepping into the spotlight in TASIS’s production of Annie!
The hard work required to prepare for a performance inspired me to share some essential tips for performers.
Here are my Top 5 Tips for Prepping for a Stellar Performance, with some practical advice to help you shine on stage and enjoy the experience to the fullest!
1. Prepare Your Bag the Night Before
Preparation is key to reducing stress on the big day.
By organizing everything you need ahead of time, you can focus on getting into the right mindset instead of scrambling to find items last minute.
Here’s what your bag should include:
Costumes and accessories: Check that your costume is complete and free of wrinkles or damage. Make a checklist so you don’t forget small items like hairpins, belts, or shoes.
Extra tights or socks: Tights are notorious for snagging or tearing, and socks have a way of disappearing. Having backups ensures you’re ready for anything.
A water bottle and snacks: Choose light, easy-to-eat foods like nuts, fruit, or granola bars. These will keep your energy up without making you feel too full.
A warm cover-up: A cozy sweater is a backstage essential. Your body temperature may drop while waiting backstage - staying warm and comfortable keeps you ready to perform your best.
Packing your bag the night before gives you peace of mind and sets the tone for a smooth, stress-free performance day.
2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Sleep is essential for performers. A well-rested mind and body help you focus, stay energized, and manage nerves. Avoid staying up late - your hard work is done, and rest will help you bring your best to the stage.
Establish a calming bedtime routine the night before. Avoid screen time, which can interfere with your ability to fall asleep, and instead, try reading, listening to calming music, or visualizing your performance.
3. Stay Hydrated and Choose Foods Wisely
Start hydrating the day before your performance, and sip water regularly throughout the day. Proper hydration will avoid your throat drying out on stage and keep your energy up! Avoid sugary drinks, spicy foods, and chocolate, which can coat your throat or irritate your vocal cords.
Stick to familiar foods and avoid anything new or spicy before your performance. You don’t want to risk an upset stomach or an unexpected reaction.
4. Warm Up and Mentally Rehearse
Start your day with vocal and physical warm-ups to prepare your body and voice. Stretch to release tension and do a gentle vocal warm up.
Take a moment to mentally rehearse your performance. Picture yourself moving confidently through each part, connecting with the story and the audience.
Visualization is a powerful tool for staying focused and reducing nerves.
Plan Your Day for Calm and Focus
The hours leading up to your performance should be calm and organised. Plan your schedule carefully so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.
Avoid cramming too many activities into your day.
Leave plenty of time to travel to the venue and get ready.
Stick to routines you know work for you—this isn’t the time to try something new.
Avoid stressful tasks or situations that might affect your mood.
Having a clear, simple plan ensures you arrive at the venue feeling grounded and focused.
Bonus Tip: Share, Don’t Stress
One of the best mindset shifts for performers is to think of your performance as a gift. Instead of worrying about what the audience thinks, focus on sharing your talent, love for the staget, and connection to the story.
When you approach the stage with this mindset, everything flows naturally. Your nerves turn into energy, and you can fully enjoy the moment.
Final Thoughts...
Performing is a magical experience, but preparation is what allows you to truly shine. By organizing your bag, staying hydrated, warming up, and planning your day with care, you set yourself up for success.
To all the performers out there: trust in your preparation, enjoy the moment, and let yourself shine! 💛
✨ Throwback to my very first principal role! ✨
Here I am as Raquelita in Viva Mexico! I still remember how nervous I was before stepping onto the stage. But I also learned that preparation is everything - once I was fully ready, the nerves transformed into excitement, and I could immerse myself in the magic of performing. 🌟
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