Even the most experienced performers feel it — that little flutter in the stomach before stepping on stage. Whether it’s a showcase, exam, or recital, nerves are a completely natural part of performing. In fact, they’re a sign that you care.
At Arabesque School of Performing Arts, we don’t try to get rid of nerves entirely. Instead, we help students understand them, manage them, and use them in a way that builds confidence rather than breaks it down.
Here are a few practical ways to steady your mind and body before a big moment.
1. Focus on What You Can Control
You can’t control the lighting, the audience, or the acoustics — but you can control how you prepare. Double-check your costume, warm up your body properly, and go over your routine calmly.
Shifting your focus to small, manageable tasks helps take your mind off the “what-ifs” and brings you back to the present.
2. Create a Pre-Performance Routine
Whether it’s breathing deeply, stretching slowly, or saying a quiet affirmation, having a small routine can help you feel grounded. Familiar rituals signal to your brain that it’s time to focus — not panic.
This doesn’t need to be long or complicated. Just something consistent that helps settle your nerves and sets the tone.
3. Don’t Skip Your Warm-Up
A proper warm-up does more than prepare your muscles — it wakes up your coordination, clears your mind, and channels nervous energy into movement. Think of it as a mental reset button as much as a physical one.
Once your body starts moving, your brain tends to follow. It’s the first step in shifting from anxious to ready.
4. Remember That Nervous Energy Is Still Energy
That rush of adrenaline? It’s not your enemy. When managed well, it can heighten your focus and bring a little extra sharpness to your movement. You just need to direct it, not fight it.
Breathe through it. Move through it. Let it become part of your performance — not a barrier to it.
5. Use the Rehearsal in Your Head
Visualise your routine going well. Imagine yourself walking on stage with control, moving confidently, and finishing strong. Mental rehearsal is a powerful tool — it helps create a sense of familiarity and calms the fear of the unknown.
Even a few minutes of visualisation can help you feel more prepared and more in control.
6. Talk to Someone If You Need To
Sometimes, saying “I feel nervous” out loud is enough to take the edge off. Whether it’s a teacher, a parent, or a fellow student, having someone remind you that nerves are normal — and that you’re capable — can make a huge difference.
You’re never expected to manage nerves alone. Support is part of the performance journey too.
There’s Courage in Showing Up
Being nervous doesn’t mean you’re not ready — it just means you’re stepping into something important. Every confident performer you’ve ever seen has had a moment backstage where they felt the same way you do now.
The goal isn’t to perform without fear. It’s to perform anyway — with care, with presence, and with pride in how far you’ve come.
Want to Build Confidence for the Stage?
Our classes are designed to develop both technique and performance mindset, helping students feel secure and supported before stepping out under the lights.
Book a trial class at Arabesque School of Performing Arts and discover how preparation, practice, and gentle guidance can make the stage feel a little less daunting — and a lot more exciting.