The first time I was onstage, I had terrible stage fright. It was a high school production, and even though I didn’t have a leading role, I had a pretty big part. I was in about 6 scenes, and had a decent amount of lines. Up until the night of the play, I had told myself that I wasn’t going to be scared, that I didn’t have stage fright. Opening night, it all changed. We stood backstage, in costume and makeup, and I dared to peak from the side of the stage out at the huge auditorium.
It was packed. My heart almost leaped into my throat. I automatically forgot all my lines, all the blocking, and all the choreography. We went out into the hallway where my director had organized a prayer circle.
As has I have experienced, prayer circles always end up in tears, which end up in the makeup people frantically running around reapplying mascara and foundation. The prayer circle was a huge source of inspiration for me. All the actors and tech crew gathered together to pray and give last minute speeches / encouragement . I happened to be standing next to my best friend. She was such a source of encouragement. Her hug got me through the show.
It was all a blur, but it happened, and we all did great. I’ve learned that stage fright can be cured by trust, practice, and a hug from a friend.
