Technical issues hit during your live production. How do you stay composed?
How do you keep your cool under pressure? Share your strategies for managing technical glitches on stage.
Technical issues hit during your live production. How do you stay composed?
How do you keep your cool under pressure? Share your strategies for managing technical glitches on stage.
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When tech issues strike mid-show, mindset is everything. As a performer and speaker, I’ve learned to anchor myself in presence — not panic. I use controlled breathing to stay centered and lean into improv skills to keep the energy flowing. The audience takes their emotional cues from *you* — if you stay calm and composed, they will too. I also prepare in advance with backup plans, tech checks, and clear communication with the crew. But when the unexpected happens, I trust my training, stay connected with the audience, and remember: authenticity often makes a bigger impact than perfection.
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"The show must go on"... here's how we do it, whether its for stage, live stunt shows, workshop scenes, or film: - Keep calm and breathe. Panic registers clearly, so stay calm. You may even be able to improvise and make it work for you. - Have a backup plan. Depending on the nature of the issue, this could be something like having a spare mic, spare props, emergency lighting, choreographed cover-ups, etc. Redundancy helps. - Stay in character and stay engaged. Nothing breaks immersion quite like breaking character. Keep the energy going - they'll stay with you regardless of the quirks your production is having. Adaptability reigns on stage. - After it's over, debrief. Analyze what happened to refine contingencies for the future.
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Staying composed during live production hiccups is like keeping your cool in a storm, it’s all about preparation, mindset, and quick thinking. Here’s how I’d approach it: 1. Pause and Assess 2. Rely on Your Preparation 3. Prioritize Communication 4. Control What You Can 5. Keep a Sense of Humor 6. Learn for Next Time