7 tips for improving stage presence

M.J. had the glove and the fancy footwork while Elvis had the glittery get-up and the swinging hips. But dress and dance are not the sole ingredients to becoming a great stage performer. Music's biggest names are known to prepare their stage presence, calculating their every move.

Here’s are seven tips for improving stage presence taken from some of the most famous entertainers of all time.

Practice and Prepare

Beyoncé isn’t known as Queen B. and one of modern-day's best showman for nothing. Sure, she’s got the moves, the dress, the lights and the fireworks, but she’s also a self-proclaimed workaholic who never settles for second best. Your new motto: practice makes perfect! Improv is one thing, but without some serious preparation, you will find yourself awkwardly pacing about the stage.

Dress the part

70s rock band Kiss has become iconic for their getups. Even the Beatles coordinated their on stage outfits. Your look creates ambiance for the event, but a persona with whom your audience can identify.

Smile and ooze confidence

Whether your face is broadcast across the jumbotron or not, a smile shows your audience that you are having fun. Flashing those pearly whites will immediately put you at ease and have the same effect on your audience. Along the same lines, the audience can sense fear and discomfort. While you may not be 100% comfortable due to mounting stress, follow the old adage "fake it till you make it." You'll be doing yourself and the concert-goers a favor!

Be aware of your body

Sometimes, we are unaware of odd ticks and movements we make. Without realizing it, do you stick your tongue out, run your fingers through your hair, .....? These kinds of movements can cause your audience to become distracted. Try filming yourself or have a trusted friend take notes while you perform. Being aware of any unconscious movements is the first step in correcting them.

Take a page from the famous

If you're having trouble determining the right moves to adopt or creating an on stage persona, no need to reinvent the wheel. Take a page from some of your famous artists! Watch and study videos of your favorite artists for any tips.
It's likely that the best of them have worked long hours and paid big bucks to have experts help create their every move. Take advantage of this and jot down some moves that suit you!

Move around

It goes without saying, don't rest immobile (unless, of course, it’s intentional). Switching sides of the stage includes everyone and allows you the opportunity to get any jitters out. A well thought out plan of action is necessary though to avoid nervous and unplanned pacing.

Engage with your audience

Eye contact, waves, air high fives, even the occasional invitation to join you on stage, these are all things you can do to keep your audience involved and on their toes. An added bonus, they'll feel special! Don’t underestimate the power of direct interaction!

Published on: September 1, 2018