Know the words to any lines you’ll be speaking. Memorize the lyrics to any songs you’ll be singing. If you play an instrument, make sure you have the music memorized.
For example, does the artist come across as natural and believable? If so, why? What does the performer do that shows emotional attachment to the lyrics, music or dialogue?
For example, if a negative thought arises, counter it with a positive affirmation like “I will be successful. ”
Try gentle humming and playing relaxing music.
Know your place on the stage so that you won’t appear unsure when you make your entrance. [2] X Research source
Avoid wearing black unless you’re certain that the backdrop will be very light.
Don’t wear pantyhose with sheen. The stage lights will reflect off them and make your legs appear bigger than they are.
The heavy makeup will look a bit garish under natural light but great under the stage lights. Females may want to wear a brightly colored lipstick to stand out, a neutral lip, or a character-appropriate lip color. Avoid wearing a lot of black eyeliner, which can accentuate dark circles under-eye circles beneath the stage lights. [6] X Research source Don’t apply a heavy foundation and nothing else, or you’ll appear too pale.
If you’re part of a band, the entire band should be dressed for the spotlight, not just the lead singer.
Keep your head up and your chest open.
Take your time. Breathe normally and match the pace of your actions to your calm, regular breathing.
For example, if you’re going to perform “America The Beautiful,” ask yourself in your head “Whose land is this?” Then start singing your answer, which is the opening line to the song: “This land is your land, this land is my land…”
Get into your performance so that your facial expressions will genuinely reflect the appropriate emotions. This can not only improve the way your audience views your performance, but it also improves the way people listen to a performance. [12] X Research source Project your emotions by keeping your body language in tune with the movement of your performance. For example, if you’re expressing sincerity, you might hold your hand over your heart. If you’re being welcoming, you could gesture with your arms in the air as if you’re about to give someone a hug.
For example, if you’re singing, imagine that you’re singing to the person in the very last row. Project your voice and use sweeping gestures. You want to be lively and have movement, but avoid fidgeting.
Don’t stay in one place if you don’t have to. Move around the stage, such as coming up to the front of the stage nearer to the audience. [15] X Research source Face your audience with the mindset that you are pleased to see them. They showed up for the performance, so you want them to feel appreciated!
You don’t want it to be obvious to the crowd that you’re mugging for the cameras. Do this as naturally and subtly as possible.
