Hey everyone, Carly Catto here! I hope you're all doing well and enjoying the latest season of Backstage. Today, I wanted to talk about something that is near and dear to my heart - the thrill of performing on stage.
The Rush
There's just something magical about stepping onto a stage and feeling the energy in the air. The lights shining down on you, the sound of applause filling your ears - it's an indescribable rush that never fails to give me goosebumps. Whether it's a small local theater or a grand Broadway stage, every performance brings its own unique excitement.
Pre-Show Jitters
Now, don't get me wrong. It's not always rainbows and unicorns leading up to showtime. In fact, more often than not, there are nerves involved - lots of them! Those pre-show jitters can be intense but they also serve as a reminder that what we do matters; it means we care deeply about our craft.
Finding My Zen
Over time though, I've learned how to channel those nervous butterflies into positive energy instead of letting them consume me. One thing that has helped tremendously is finding my zen before going onstage. Whether it's through meditation or doing vocal warm-ups with my fellow castmates backstage – taking some quiet moments for myself helps calm those racing thoughts.
Visualizing Success
Another technique that really works for me is visualization. Before each performance, I take some time alone in my dressing room envisioning everything going smoothly from start to finish – hitting all the right notes during songs and nailing every dance move flawlessly (well at least most times!). This mental preparation allows me to step out onto that stage with confidence knowing deep down inside—I've got this!
Connection with Audience
One aspect of performing live that truly sets my soul on fire is connecting with an audience full of people who share our love for the arts. It's incredible to witness how a single performance can bring so many individuals together, all experiencing the same emotions and being moved by our story.
The Power of Storytelling
As performers, we have the power to transport people into different worlds with our storytelling. Whether it's making them laugh or bringing tears to their eyes - there's something truly magical about being able to make an impact on someone through your art.
Onstage Chemistry
But it isn't just connecting with the audience that makes performing so special; it’s also about building chemistry with my fellow castmates onstage. Through countless rehearsals and shared experiences, we've developed a bond that goes beyond friendship – we're like one big family.
Trusting Each Other
When you step onto that stage, you need complete trust in each other. You rely on your co-stars for cues and support during those intense dance numbers or emotional scenes. There is nothing quite like feeling completely in sync with your fellow actors as you navigate through the ups and downs of a live performance.
Cherishing Every Moment
Every time I step offstage after a show, I'm filled with this mix of exhaustion and pure joy knowing that I gave everything I had up there – heart, soul, sweat...everything! But more importantly—I cherish every single moment because no two performances are ever exactly alike.
Each night brings its own set of surprises—whether it be forgotten lines (oops!) or unexpected technical difficulties—it keeps things exciting!
Post-Show Blues
Now let me tell you something else—the post-show blues are real! After weeks or even months spent rehearsing day after day alongside my amazing castmates—saying goodbye at closing night can be bittersweet moments filled both happiness for what was accomplished but also sadness knowing this chapter has come to an end (until next season perhaps?).
Celebrating Successes
However once opening night jitters have subsided and the curtain comes down one final time, it's important to celebrate all of our hard work together. We reminisce about funny moments that happened backstage or share stories from rehearsals—it’s a way for us to honor the journey we've been on together.
Grateful for Opportunities
I am incredibly grateful for every opportunity I've had to perform on stage. It's not just a career but also my passion and something that brings me immense joy. The thrill of performing is like nothing else in this world, and I feel truly blessed to be able to do what I love day in and day out.
Conclusion
So there you have it - a glimpse into why performing on stage means so much to me. From the rush of adrenaline before stepping out onto that platform, connecting with an audience through storytelling, building onstage chemistry with my castmates—every aspect fills me with pure exhilaration.
If you're reading this as someone who dreams of taking center stage someday or simply loves watching live performances—I hope this gives you some insight into why we performers do what we do! And remember, whether it's acting, singing or dancing – follow your passions because life is too short not to chase after your dreams!
Until next time, Carly Catto