In the moments between waiting and appearing there is often a cascading number of feelings crashing about in the performer’s heart. Fear of failure, anticipation of the thrill of performing before an audience, difficulty breathing and even the feeling that you should turn and run. Will you remember everything? Will your family be watching? Those things are a part of the process of performing.

Gone are the quiet and relaxed moments during practice. Comfortable clothing has been replaced by costume. The audience is creating a full-room buzz of noise. The lights are bright and hot. It all comes together just moments before you that that first step onto the stage.