Japanese kabuki

Stage Fright in Different Cultures: A Global Perspective

Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, is a common experience worldwide. While it affects people in every corner of the globe, how different cultures handle stage fright can vary significantly. Understanding these differences can provide valuable insights into managing and overcoming this challenge. This post explores stage fright in different cultures, focusing on how it manifests and how various …

Stage Fright Science: What Happens in the Brain?

Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, is a common experience. Even seasoned performers can feel it. This post will explain the science behind stage fright, focusing on what happens in the brain. Understanding these processes can help us better manage and support those who face this challenge. What Is Stage Fright? Stage fright is the intense fear or anxiety …

History of Stage Fright in the Performing Arts

Stage fright—also known as performance anxiety—has been part of the performing arts for ages. Even seasoned actors, musicians, and public speakers can experience it. This phenomenon causes intense fear and nervousness before or during a performance. Here, we explore the history of stage fright, notable instances, and its impact on performing arts. Ancient Beginnings: Stage Fright in Ancient Greece and …

Zayn Malik’s Stage Fright No Show

It was to be a triumphant moment as a solo artist fo former One Direction member Zayn Malik, but stage fright got in the way He had returned to the UK to appear at the Summertime Ball at Wembley Stadium along with Ariana Grande and Little Mix. At the last minute, though, nerves got the better of him, and he …

Australian swimmers hit with stage fright at Olympics

Anxiety Robs Australian Swimmers at Olympics

The Olympic Games in Rio should have provided Australian swimmers with lots of opportunities for glory. Going into the Games, there was even talk of them winning up to ten gold medals. The actual take turned out to be just a fraction of that. Backstroke king Mitch Larkin took home one silver medal rather than two gold, freestyle star Cate …

Tell it to the Dogs

Bonnie Auslander, the director of the Kogod Center for Business Communications, shares her technique of having speakers practice in front of dogs to help them cope with their performance anxiety in an article for the New York Times. It’s an entertaining idea but does it offer any real value? Three Conditions Behind Speech Fright As I explain in Understanding Stage …

NYT Article on Smart Apps for Stage Fright

A recent article in the Personal Tech section of the New York Times reviews a number of smartphone apps that supposedly help people deal with their stage fright. While the apps considered are interesting, none really get to the heart of the problem with stage fright and are of limited help. Article link