talkmagic.co.uk

Other helpful ideas here:

http://www.talkmagic.co.uk/ftopic12924.php&highlight=

Regards,
Gerald

You have to have total confidence in yourself. If you get nervous, just think of how many times you've nailed the effect in front of a mirror. And try making a joke or two to get yourself more comfortable. It helped me. Also, always have a way out. Even if you totally mess up a trick, you should be able to make that effect seem like it was part of another effect to keep your performance flowing smoothly. Experiment. Try messing up tricks and bailing yourself out. Once you can do that, you have nothing to worry about, and because you are not worrying, you'll make less mistakes.

Good suggestions! Allow me to add a thought or two:

We tend to see what we want to see in mirrors. Watching yourself in the mirror can help in the beginning stages of practice and rehearsal, but it gives you a very limited perspective. It is best to get away from the mirror as soon as possible. Bad habits can develop if you are a “slave” to a mirror.

Video clips set at different angles or even better, a video of your performance can be very enlightening. Video gives you a better picture of what people actually see and how they react. Video reveals where you need to work on your scripting, elocution, blocking, timing and pacing; problems which a mirror can not reveal.

In the final analysis, “one can not be one’s own director.” (I don’t know for sure whose quote that is, but it is an insightful one.) Find a qualified, experienced person (or persons) to watch and advise you.

Most of all, when you think you are ready, go out and entertain the crowd. You will gain confidence with performing experience. You’ll be surprised at the wisdom that comes from experience: IF you keep your eyes, ears and most importantly, your mind open.

Thanks for considering my thoughts.

Gerald