ABSTRACT
Silence concerning stage fright may be influenced by the fact that actors feel duty-bound by the adage, “The show must go on.” This well-known theatrical phrase, which is rumored to have been coined in the circus around the late 1800s, means that a performance must take place despite any accidents, emergencies—or fears. This code also contributes to the silence concerning stage fright. Historically, the theater has been thought be a dangerous place. Backstage life often includes practicing rituals, honoring superstitions, and using lucky charms to calm precurtain nerves and keep bad luck at bay. All categories of performers—musicians, dancers, stand-up comedians, mimes, performance artists, to name a few—are as vulnerable to stage fright as are actors. It seems to be an inherent part of appearing before audiences. However, some maintain that stage fright is different in diverse types of performers.
