One of the most important aspects of dancing is to learn how to deal with stage fright. To be relaxed, calm and confident is very important for a dancer. Most of the international celebrities whom I’ve taught dance; have had to deal with “backstage jitters” just before a performance. Madonna, Shakira, Beyonce and even Kenny G too share the same fear. My student actress Kajol once told me due to stage fright she could never do live performances. It is natural for any dancer to feel nervous right before going on stage. Often this nervousness can hinder a dancer’s performance.

As we become seasoned performers, we learn how to use this nervousness to our advantage. This tension comes from the adrenaline that naturally will release into the body. It is hard to feel calm once this happens! This will happen when a person embarks on a venture that requires a great deal of courage. Dancing on stage can be downright scary at times. One way to perform well is to have been on stage enough times, just to naturally feel comfortable! This unfortunately isn’t an option for less experienced dancers. But there are a few things a dancer can do to lessen this tension and to use it towards the performance ahead.
Always be prepared. Before you get called to the wings by the stagehands, practice breathing and stretching. Make sure you are completely warmed up, stretched and calm. Taking deep breaths is very important so you have a great surplus of oxygen flowing through your lungs and muscles. By the time you get to the wings, you should be calm enough to handle the last minute nerves.
Never go on stage without practising the piece at least twice. Warming up well will assure a better performance and that should ease a little tension right there. Make sure you have enough time the night before, to sleep at least 9 hours that night. This will help your performance and your tension. Stay hydrated and have some protein in your pre-performance meal. Don’t eat heavy but try to eat enough so that you feel energetic. Eat three to four hours before your performance. Do not eat sugar or drink caffeine. And absolutely no smoking or alcohol!
Make sure your dance bag, costumes, accessories and makeup are all packed and kept ready the night before. Arrive at the venue at least an hour before you’re required to be there. This will give you time to practice on the stage area and will lessen your chances of any late arrival, which will in turn cause increased tension.
Try your shoes on the floor when it’s rolled out. Make any last minute adjustments according to the floor. Be focussed and make sure you listen to your music and visualise the performance before you go onstage. Try to centre yourself and stay in a very focussed state of mind.· Try to use whatever mood you’re feeling that day towards your performance. Any form of energy is good for the body. This is the difference between a good dancer and a phenomenal performer.
Be positive as backstage nervousness is also a twist of anticipation and excitement. Remember these other factors and keep your mindset positive. Anticipate your best performance yet, and enjoy the excitement of your finally getting to perform this piece after all the hard work you’ve done! Remember to be pro-active! Dancers need to come together as a group in a positive light pre-performance. A team ritual brings a positive energy to the group that translates on stage.
Have confidence in yourself! You have worked hard and you were chosen for this part because you earned it! Have pride in your part no matter how large or small it may be. A dancer without jitters is a bird without wings. Enjoy this excitement every time you’re in those wings. So enjoy these moments and soar high on the stage.