What is a good pre-show routine for performers?
Warm up body and voice
Start with light movement, such as walking, shoulder rolls and gentle stretches, to get blood moving. Follow with a short vocal warm-up that eases you from low to high notes. Keep the warm-up short enough that you do not tire your voice before the show.
Hydrate with water rather than heavy drinks, and skip large meals right before you perform. Many performers feel more comfortable with a light snack an hour or two before the show.
- Five to ten minutes of movement
- Gentle vocal warm-up, not full power
- Water within reach offstage
- Check your costume and props
Focus your mind
Run through your opening lines or first cue in your head or quietly with your scene partner. This helps the first moments feel familiar. Give yourself a few minutes alone to breathe slowly and focus on the story you are telling.
Many performers use the same routine every show. Repeating it helps your body know when it is time to switch into performance mode. Arrive at the venue with enough time to warm up without rushing, since a calm arrival makes the warm-up more effective. If the venue has a dressing room, claim a spot away from the door so your space stays focused.
Common mistakes
- Skipping the warm-up because you feel rushed or tired.
- Using the whole pre-show period to chat or scroll on your phone.
- Trying a brand-new vocal exercise right before curtain.
