Aisha
Is it okay to be an actor if you get nervous ?
I love to act but before i start to i get really nervous. I was just wonder if this is normal . #acting #actor
5 answers
Akshat Pradhan
Akshat’s Answer
Everybody gets nervous. I did a comedy skit at Nick's Comedy Stop and boy was I nervous. But you get use to it after doing it multiple times. Moreover, when you get up on stage, the audience just looks like a blur of colors.
Ezra Knight
Ezra’s Answer
In High School, I was also an Athlete. Basketball & Football were my sports. In each, I was at times, Amazing...in practice. I'd move up in the lineup & then Gametime would come & my Nerves would get the better of me. I'd Malfunction. I'd get benched & fall back down the lineup & return to the bench. It was around this time I knew Acting was meant for me - & she for me - because Onstage I was not nearly as distracted by Nerves. I would get nervous before the show - esp as I would walk toward the stage, or camera - but unlike in Sports, I would instead rise to accomplish the task, which would give me renewed energy! I would not Malfunction...I would Function Fully! There was no longer room for Fear but there was only Space & Time to Be the Character...& Tell the Story.
G. Mark Stewart
G. Mark’s Answer
For one thing, I've known actors who were nervous pretty much every time, and they were very good. But for a personal point of view, I never, ever, ever wanted to do anything like acting. But a couple friends of mine and I decided to get into Second City training. Terrifying. Nervous every time. Positive comments from others and the instructors and directors and professionals were all really, really appreciated. But the terror and nervousness was always there. In fact, there was one single time when I remember not being nervous. And I was told that in that night's show, I was "chewing up the scenery", which, of course, got me being terrified again for the next show.
However, I've noticed that the more times I went, the nervousness became excited energy. And I got better. And it made every social interaction easier as the years went on. So is it "okay"? I'd say it's a good sign that it's good for you.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Can Nervousness be a Part of Acting?
Decoding Nervousness in Acting
It's perfectly normal to feel a little jittery before you step onto the stage, regardless of whether you're a seasoned actor or just starting out. This nervousness can stem from various factors, such as the pressure to perform well, the fear of being judged, or the drive to succeed. Interestingly, this surge of adrenaline can actually boost your performance by sharpening your focus and energizing you.
Understanding Performance Anxiety
Performance anxiety, also known as stage fright, is a common issue that affects people in many fields, not just acting. Psychological research suggests that this anxiety stems from the fear of negative feedback and the high stakes associated with public performances. For actors, this can lead to physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, or a rapid heartbeat.
Strategies to Handle Nervousness
Preparation: One of the best ways to tackle nerves is by preparing thoroughly. Being well-versed with your lines, understanding your character in depth, and rehearsing extensively can boost your confidence.
Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing exercises before stepping onto the stage can help keep your nerves in check. Inhale deeply through your nose for four counts, hold for another four, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for four counts.
Visualization: Many accomplished actors use visualization techniques, imagining themselves delivering a successful performance. This mental rehearsal can help ease anxiety by fostering a positive mindset.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation or yoga can help manage anxiety levels over time.
Acceptance: Recognizing that nervousness is a normal part of acting can also help ease some pressure. Accepting these feelings rather than resisting them allows you to channel that energy into your performance.
The Upside of Nervousness
Interestingly, a bit of nervousness can actually enhance an actor’s performance. It keeps you alert and engaged with the script and the audience. Many actors have found that their best performances come when they're slightly anxious, as it helps them stay in the moment.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Nerves
In conclusion, it's absolutely fine to feel nervous about acting; in fact, it's quite normal! Instead of seeing nervousness as an obstacle, view it as a crucial part of the creative process that can enhance your performance if managed effectively. With practice and the right coping strategies, you can learn to harness your nerves and use them to fuel your passion for acting.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Psychological Association (APA) - Provides insights into performance anxiety and coping mechanisms.
Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) - Offers research on mindfulness techniques beneficial for managing anxiety.
The Actors Studio - A renowned institution that discusses the emotional aspects of acting including dealing with nerves on stage.
God Bless You!
JC.
David H. Brune
David H.’s Answer
I have to agree with AkshatPradhan. If you're not nervous before you go on stage, you should check and see if you have a pulse. Everybody gets nervous. As you gain experience acting you will begin to learn how to use this nervous energy, to channel it, and to make it work for you instead of against you. In your acting classes and in rehearsal you will learn exercises that teach you how to relax, how to clear your mind and how to focus on the job at hand. You will learn how to use your nervous energy acting on the stage instead of letting it overpower you while you wait in the wings. You must also learn to trust yourself. Through the rehearsal process you have learned what needs to be done and how to do it. You are prepared. You have the support of your fellow actors on stage. One of the greatest things about live theater, is that you have the support of the people in the audience. Work hard at your craft. Learn to focus and, most basic of all, learn how to breathe.