I was a musician in school and college and frequently had stage fright. This works EVERY time. Start by taking a slow deep breath until you can't fill your lungs with any more air. Hold it for a couple seconds and then slowly exhale until there's no more air to expel. Do that two or three times and you instantly feel calmer. When you have stage fright, you tend to take shallow breaths and tend to hyperventilate. It really works well. Thanks for another great video, David!
I took a note from Richard Osterlind and always begin with something self working that absolutely can’t fail. I find that once I get going I can finally begin to relax. By the time I need to do an actual move or something technical, I’m mostly over the shakes.
David, thanks for your valuable insight. I can definitely remember the uncontrollable hand shaking when I first started performing several years ago. I'm glad to say that the hand shaking has largely diminished over time but the nervous anticipation is still there. And that's good, as you said. I care about pleasing my audience and I want to do an awesome job. What I always do before my standup show (After I finish setting up) is walk around and perform some easy closeup magic (The Hypnotized Bandana, Crazy Man's Handcuffs, The Haunted Ring, Twisted Straws, etc.) and gags for the guests that have already arrived. Not only does this get me "warmed up" and more relaxed but it lets the audience know that I'm a friendly, fun-loving guy and that we are going to have a good time together with magic. There are already smiles and laughter before the show starts - A very good thing! Also, before I leave for a gig, I always look at myself in the mirror and say "You are awesome - Have fun!". And, I leave feeling confident that I will do a good job because I have practiced, practiced and practiced some more.
When I perform I like to "interact" with my audience and start a dialogue as soon as I can. It seems to reduce that "barrier" between you and the audience. Works for me. Thanks again for the great ideas and excellent presentation / graphics. I know it takes more time but it really does add to the quality of your videos. Thank you.
Another great video with a lot of good advice. The first thing I try to remember is that all the people you are performing for ALL want to love you, you just have to allow them to do that. If your hands shake start with something that doesn't require much hand control, a self-working card trick in the spectator's hands is a great way, once you see the great reaction that gets you will be able to start to relax a little. At the moment I walk up looking at my phone then perform a Cognito routine and follow it with Maxim but always with the idea that it is the spectator doing it, then go into "design for laughter". After that, the nerves are under control and the rest of the evening just flows so well.
Big on stage fright here. I strongly recommend In the Spotlight by Janet Esposito and The Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown. Definitely helped me A LOT.
This is exactly what I needed, Thank you! I can't stop trembling like I was having a seizure when I perform sleights even to my friends.This really helped out a lot!
Some great advice there. Two great tips I learned when doing a presentation skills course. First, if you can record yourself (audio or video) when you watch it back you'll see it's almost always better than you think. That's because you are just seeing the end product and not hearing all the thoughts from that pesky inner voice. Secondly, remember the audience doesn't know what you are going to say or do. So if you forget something or say something different, they have no idea. Anything you do, say or don't say will be considered part of the act.
When I was in high school, I took part in a talent show. I was unaware before arriving that we would have to put on our show twice, once for the upper years and once for the lower years. The first show for the upper years went fine. But I did not have time to properly reset, and so I messed up several tricks. Even now twenty three years later, I cannot bring myself to perform tricks for people unless they are friends, because I get too nervous.
Start with saying Hello! ;) Great video!! I've never seen any science on stage fright, this is wonderful! I used to get it all the time, and when I was doing Improv, I came off a stage once, and... I could not remember a single thing that happened on stage. My subconsciousness kicked in, and I completely blanked out. Happened couple more times since then ;) But I usually start with Sponge balls, since I know them back and forth, and it eases the nerves, and I can continue with my set. One advise I can add here - take Improv classes, it's wonderful tool in any performer's repertoire.
I appreciate this very much. No matter how much I practice, or script, or prepare…I still feel some sort of anxiety while performing. Even when performing for people I’ve known forever. Thanks for this information.
When I was in 4th grade, I had to recite the Gettysburg address. My parents made me memorize it. To help with stage fright, I was told to look at the back of the audience (as you would only focus on the back row, not the entire auditorium. Also, picture them in their underwear. Great tips and thanks for the advice!
Wise words Maestro. I never fail to get pre-show jitters EVERY time. And you're right, it's not a negative. My tuppence worth of a tip would be - before you start, look in a mirror and give yourself a high five and say "I'm ready to share the love". Then get out there and do what has to be THE greatest job in the World.
Great topic! There is a great free or inexpensive resource that most people have access to that can help cope with this. Toastmasters is a an international organization with local meetings everywhere. People will find many other folks from all ages and all walks of life that are trying to get over hurdles that are in the way of them speaking in public. Performing is just that, speaking in public and Toastmasters gives you plenty of opportunity to practice.
Little exitement gives a nice boost. With relaxed mood, brain works better. Some adrenaline helps in good run, but having shaking hands is never the feeling I wish for. I've never found a way that work for every occation. Sometimes breathing deep helps to calm down. Sometimes it will boost the exitement. So... "brake a leg" = enjoy performing. Awesome topic and hints!
Watching Paul Gertner do Unshuffle. For just a second his hand shook. A tiny shake. He has been doing that trick for 30+ years. It is all about pressing through. Die gracefully, the kindness of the house will sustain you. I have started doing 10g of melatonin. Seems cut down on brain activity in the problem solving area of the head. But not on the rote process part. I know in our culture blunt displays of ego, but know in your heart you are a force of nature. Got to be lager than life. Own the stage.
I hate shaky hands and it just happens sometimes. I personally only perform magic once I’m feeling comfortable with people. Also, I’ve found having a drink in me helps tremendously but wouldn’t recommend or rely on that…
I already know most of this, I mediate and practice mindfulness, on a daily basis. I though that this video was absolutely fantastic and will no doubt it will help lots of people. I think I am just destined to perform for my friends children and my own. The people around me are sick with tricks so I don't perform for them any more, and I'm even too nervous to upload to magician only (very nasty place sometimes) or make my own social channels. However I like magic and will practice everyday and by new downloads and books and tricks. Even if it is just for myself.
@@magicorthodoxy I believe he even put out a pamphlet on how to overcome stage fright based his own experiences. It is in the book in search of the sensational. Bob Cassidy has also written about his own stage fright and how it almost cost him a gig on a cruise ship.
As someone who has been on AGT, David Letterman, Penn & Teller, ect, I have had some slight nervousness before. But, usually I am ok once I get onstage and start interacting with the audience. But the more you are in front of people, the better. I am actually am most uncomfortable performing for other magicians.
Not only do I get the shakes, my face and neck turn bright red and wow is it embarrassing. Makes me not be able to focus on the magic at all. Unfortunately, I think there is no solution for this one...
I'm not one for recommending medication as a rule but propranolol is really good for the physical trembling. It blocks it...DEAD. I had to give a public speech in front of hundreds of people and I literally thought I would have to do it on a commode. PP saved my skin on the trembling. Not saying you should consider this if you are performing all the time. But if it is semi-regular only, or for big events, it might be worth considering. A lot of musicians use it precisely because it kills the trembles and they need fine motor skill (sounds like something else I can think of!)
This Helped A lot! Tho I do have one question. It’s always a struggle for me to walk up to someone and ask if I can show them something. Like, I don’t know what to say to these people. I feel like going up to someone and say “hey do u wanna see a magic trick???” Is cheesy. Do you have any lines that I can use for this?
I wish you can do a video on how to get back into magic and performing on streets etc. either emergence of social media imo magic is losing its value compared to how it was before. It’s looks just fun and childish and too cgi “never you’ll perform in person” I think imo magic is supposed to look scary as it entails. Anyways I would love to start performing and getting rid of fear etc. thankfully I still have the persona and skill if anyone who knows me asks for a magic but I want to take things to the next level and not just perform basics
The only time I get nervous is when I'm doing something totally new that's why I do it for free and open mic nights before I perform it for a paid client and also I got nervous when I was on fool us! I've been doing magic a long time and 50 shows per month and I don't care how much of a billy badass you are when those lights come on and those cameras go on you get nervous LOL trust me
How to get started in STAGE MAGIC th-cam.com/video/dZGrQDie7yQ/w-d-xo.html
I was a musician in school and college and frequently had stage fright. This works EVERY time. Start by taking a slow deep breath until you can't fill your lungs with any more air. Hold it for a couple seconds and then slowly exhale until there's no more air to expel. Do that two or three times and you instantly feel calmer. When you have stage fright, you tend to take shallow breaths and tend to hyperventilate. It really works well. Thanks for another great video, David!
AWESOME SUGGSTIONS !!!
I took a note from Richard Osterlind and always begin with something self working that absolutely can’t fail. I find that once I get going I can finally begin to relax. By the time I need to do an actual move or something technical, I’m mostly over the shakes.
YES! Good advice
5:04 Wow,Professor David🔥🔥🔥🔥
LOL
David, thanks for your valuable insight. I can definitely remember the uncontrollable hand shaking when I first started performing several years ago. I'm glad to say that the hand shaking has largely diminished over time but the nervous anticipation is still there. And that's good, as you said. I care about pleasing my audience and I want to do an awesome job.
What I always do before my standup show (After I finish setting up) is walk around and perform some easy closeup magic (The Hypnotized Bandana, Crazy Man's Handcuffs, The Haunted Ring, Twisted Straws, etc.) and gags for the guests that have already arrived. Not only does this get me "warmed up" and more relaxed but it lets the audience know that I'm a friendly, fun-loving guy and that we are going to have a good time together with magic. There are already smiles and laughter before the show starts - A very good thing! Also, before I leave for a gig, I always look at myself in the mirror and say "You are awesome - Have fun!". And, I leave feeling confident that I will do a good job because I have practiced, practiced and practiced some more.
Thanks Darryl
hey david, i am one of the faithful for TWO YEARS!!!!!!
LEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS GOOOOOOOOOOO
woot woot !!!
When I perform I like to "interact" with my audience and start a dialogue as soon as I can. It seems to reduce that "barrier" between you and the audience. Works for me. Thanks again for the great ideas and excellent presentation / graphics. I know it takes more time but it really does add to the quality of your videos. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing!
Another great video with a lot of good advice. The first thing I try to remember is that all the people you are performing for ALL want to love you, you just have to allow them to do that.
If your hands shake start with something that doesn't require much hand control, a self-working card trick in the spectator's hands is a great way, once you see the great reaction that gets you will be able to start to relax a little.
At the moment I walk up looking at my phone then perform a Cognito routine and follow it with Maxim but always with the idea that it is the spectator doing it, then go into "design for laughter". After that, the nerves are under control and the rest of the evening just flows so well.
thats great advice
Big on stage fright here. I strongly recommend In the Spotlight by Janet Esposito and The Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown. Definitely helped me A LOT.
great recommendations
This is exactly what I needed, Thank you! I can't stop trembling like I was having a seizure when I perform sleights even to my friends.This really helped out a lot!
oh good - I'm here to help
I'm the same way, i try to think of it like Mr. M.O. says, enjoy the rush. I'll even tell the audience "readings minds makes me shake" lol
Some great advice there.
Two great tips I learned when doing a presentation skills course. First, if you can record yourself (audio or video) when you watch it back you'll see it's almost always better than you think. That's because you are just seeing the end product and not hearing all the thoughts from that pesky inner voice.
Secondly, remember the audience doesn't know what you are going to say or do. So if you forget something or say something different, they have no idea. Anything you do, say or don't say will be considered part of the act.
great comment
When I was in high school, I took part in a talent show. I was unaware before arriving that we would have to put on our show twice, once for the upper years and once for the lower years. The first show for the upper years went fine. But I did not have time to properly reset, and so I messed up several tricks. Even now twenty three years later, I cannot bring myself to perform tricks for people unless they are friends, because I get too nervous.
I encourage you to try again - you can do it
This is my favorite video you’ve ever posted. Thanks man 👊
Wow, thanks!
I’m so glad you made this video!
Hope you enjoyed it!
Start with saying Hello! ;)
Great video!! I've never seen any science on stage fright, this is wonderful! I used to get it all the time, and when I was doing Improv, I came off a stage once, and... I could not remember a single thing that happened on stage. My subconsciousness kicked in, and I completely blanked out. Happened couple more times since then ;)
But I usually start with Sponge balls, since I know them back and forth, and it eases the nerves, and I can continue with my set.
One advise I can add here - take Improv classes, it's wonderful tool in any performer's repertoire.
yes, or a local toast masters group
I had a last minute show I have that prepare for in 2 days a routine when I never did this video really helped me thanks keep making more videos
Glad it helped!
To me is comforting... if you're that great, cause those performers are the best, and they're nervous, it's ok if I'm nervous
agreed
I appreciate this very much. No matter how much I practice, or script, or prepare…I still feel some sort of anxiety while performing. Even when performing for people I’ve known forever. Thanks for this information.
very true
Isn't this so weird ? Same happens to me, even with people I'm so comfortable with.
I find just about all of your videos helpful and/or interesting, but this one takes the cake. Really fantastic help for all of us shaky folk out here!
Glad to help!
When I was in 4th grade, I had to recite the Gettysburg address. My parents made me memorize it. To help with stage fright, I was told to look at the back of the audience (as you would only focus on the back row, not the entire auditorium. Also, picture them in their underwear. Great tips and thanks for the advice!
that's how I get through the day
Very informative and useful. Thanks for sharing 🙌
My pleasure 😊
Wise words Maestro. I never fail to get pre-show jitters EVERY time. And you're right, it's not a negative. My tuppence worth of a tip would be - before you start, look in a mirror and give yourself a high five and say "I'm ready to share the love". Then get out there and do what has to be THE greatest job in the World.
Well said!
David this is so important to hear. We appreciate your insight on this issue. 👍👍👍👍
Glad you enjoyed it
this is such a video on stage fright, thank you so much!
Good stuff David!
Glad you enjoyed it
Great topic! There is a great free or inexpensive resource that most people have access to that can help cope with this. Toastmasters is a an international organization with local meetings everywhere. People will find many other folks from all ages and all walks of life that are trying to get over hurdles that are in the way of them speaking in public. Performing is just that, speaking in public and Toastmasters gives you plenty of opportunity to practice.
yes, I had friends in Toastmasters when I was in high school
I get anxiety before getting to venue, like triple checking I didn't forget, traffic, and venue. I like to get there with catering.
I write everything down on paper and carry it in my pocket so I dont have to rely on my phone or internet service
Little exitement gives a nice boost. With relaxed mood, brain works better. Some adrenaline helps in good run, but having shaking hands is never the feeling I wish for. I've never found a way that work for every occation. Sometimes breathing deep helps to calm down. Sometimes it will boost the exitement. So... "brake a leg" = enjoy performing.
Awesome topic and hints!
Good to know!
If the audience is there, they are on your side. If they aren't, they will walk.
So if you still have an audience, you are winning.
we are the champions .. my friend
Very helpful as you are helpful.
Glad to hear that!
Watching Paul Gertner do Unshuffle. For just a second his hand shook. A tiny shake. He has been doing that trick for 30+ years. It is all about pressing through. Die gracefully, the kindness of the house will sustain you. I have started doing 10g of melatonin. Seems cut down on brain activity in the problem solving area of the head. But not on the rote process part. I know in our culture blunt displays of ego, but know in your heart you are a force of nature. Got to be lager than life. Own the stage.
OWN IT !!!
Good topic 😃👍
Glad you think so!
I have had a hard time approaching someone on the streets to perform for that I see but don't know them.
oh yea totally. I bet a lot of people feel the same way
I like your scientific explanation 😀
Thanks! 😃
I hate shaky hands and it just happens sometimes. I personally only perform magic once I’m feeling comfortable with people. Also, I’ve found having a drink in me helps tremendously but wouldn’t recommend or rely on that…
true ...
I already know most of this, I mediate and practice mindfulness, on a daily basis. I though that this video was absolutely fantastic and will no doubt it will help lots of people. I think I am just destined to perform for my friends children and my own. The people around me are sick with tricks so I don't perform for them any more, and I'm even too nervous to upload to magician only (very nasty place sometimes) or make my own social channels. However I like magic and will practice everyday and by new downloads and books and tricks. Even if it is just for myself.
Thanks for stopping by
Great show! Fogel had to overcome horrible stage freight.
oh really?
@@magicorthodoxy I believe he even put out a pamphlet on how to overcome stage fright based his own experiences. It is in the book in search of the sensational. Bob Cassidy has also written about his own stage fright and how it almost cost him a gig on a cruise ship.
Fifty years on Stage and my knee still shake before I get on stage. But once on stage, it goes away.
:D
Yup
:D
As someone who has been on AGT, David Letterman, Penn & Teller, ect, I have had some slight nervousness before. But, usually I am ok once I get onstage and start interacting with the audience.
But the more you are in front of people, the better.
I am actually am most uncomfortable performing for other magicians.
I get that ... welcome to the channel !!!
Interesting topic. Where did you learn all this physiology?
oh you know .... the usual places
Not only do I get the shakes, my face and neck turn bright red and wow is it embarrassing. Makes me not be able to focus on the magic at all. Unfortunately, I think there is no solution for this one...
hmmm
I'm not one for recommending medication as a rule but propranolol is really good for the physical trembling. It blocks it...DEAD. I had to give a public speech in front of hundreds of people and I literally thought I would have to do it on a commode. PP saved my skin on the trembling. Not saying you should consider this if you are performing all the time. But if it is semi-regular only, or for big events, it might be worth considering. A lot of musicians use it precisely because it kills the trembles and they need fine motor skill (sounds like something else I can think of!)
When l was younger my dad would tell me if l got nervous make believe everyone is sitting around in there underwear. Crazy but itvdid work.
LOL
Can you please do a top 10 tricks to start a cult? Thank you.
uh no ....LOL
@@magicorthodoxy Why?
Easy book a hypnotherapy session wirh myself for stage frieght...does it work why do you think I am so confident on stage 😂
Good question!
I was an Advanced Hypnotherapist for nore than 24 years...I use self hypnosis for stage fright.😉
Keep up the good work David 😁
Hey David, can you do top 10 magic trick that “we let the spectator or layman become a magician”
maybe ... sounds interesting
This Helped A lot! Tho I do have one question. It’s always a struggle for me to walk up to someone and ask if I can show them something. Like, I don’t know what to say to these people. I feel like going up to someone and say “hey do u wanna see a magic trick???” Is cheesy. Do you have any lines that I can use for this?
Been in the magic world for 30 years, never had the guts to perform for people, SIGH!
YOU CAN DO IT !!! 👍
I wish you can do a video on how to get back into magic and performing on streets etc. either emergence of social media imo magic is losing its value compared to how it was before. It’s looks just fun and childish and too cgi “never you’ll perform in person” I think imo magic is supposed to look scary as it entails. Anyways I would love to start performing and getting rid of fear etc. thankfully I still have the persona and skill if anyone who knows me asks for a magic but I want to take things to the next level and not just perform basics
how to perform street magic for strangers?
@@magicorthodoxy yep
@@magicorthodoxy approach anxiety more like. I keep buying products never use them
The only time I get nervous is when I'm doing something totally new that's why I do it for free and open mic nights before I perform it for a paid client and also I got nervous when I was on fool us! I've been doing magic a long time and 50 shows per month and I don't care how much of a billy badass you are when those lights come on and those cameras go on you get nervous LOL trust me
lol