What A Performance!
“Where’s Al? You guys are gonna be on in a few minutes and he’s not even changed!” Paul, the manager, was starting to get anxious. The problem – Al’s nerves.
So it wasn’t the biggest venue ever, way, way from stadium size, but it was a big step up from their usual venues. Necropolis had a reasonably large fan base, particularly for a band that had not long released their first album. Hopefully, it would be pretty packed out there tonight. Things always went better when there was a bit of a crowd.
Wes walked over to the door and knocked. “Come on, Al. Get your ass out here and get your gear on. The time for nerves is over.”
Al walked out of the tiny cubicle, wiping his mouth. “I knew I should have given that burger a miss.” He took a long drink from his extra strong lager, got changed into his stage gear, then darted back in to the toilet.
“Two minutes....” a voice called out.
Wes was ready, tapping the drumsticks. Lewis and Rick picked up their guitars and Bri strapped on his bass. Paul looked nervous; Al was really cutting it fine!
The other guys made their way up on to the stage, then Al burst out of the cubicle, hit the stairs and stood right at the front of the stage. He closed his eyes for thirty seconds, the music began and then he let rip with his voice.
Stage fright was a real pain when you fronted a rock band.
Submitted: May 02, 2018
© Copyright 2023 hullabaloo22. All rights reserved.
Comments
I've experienced this as a little girl at school... Excellent story, Hully.
Wed, May 2nd, 2018 8:13pm
Author
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Thanks for reading, jaylisbeth. This was inspired by one of Mike's previous posts.
Wed, May 2nd, 2018 2:06pm
I think most performers suffer from stage fright to a greater or lesser extent. In my experience, the worst part is the anticipation of facing an audience. It's a lot easier once you get out there and start performing. Yes, stage fright is a pain but it needn't be debilitating. Often, the opposite is true.
Wed, May 2nd, 2018 9:26pm
Author
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Yeah, I guess it gives more edge than if the performer is too relaxed and laid back about it all. Thanks so much for reading, Joe.
Wed, May 2nd, 2018 2:36pm
The anticipation is always a killer. The more time your mind has to wonder, the more frightening the possibilities become. Best to get out there and cut loose!
A good story, Hully. There's nothing worse than standing in front of a crowd, expected to hold their attention.
Author
Reply
Tell me about it! No, away from any spectators, that's where like to be. Thanks for reading, Jeff.
Thu, May 3rd, 2018 3:22am
Nice story Hully. Performers are the obvious ones for stage fright but we all get it sometimes, the performer makes a great metaphor for any nervousness.
You're good at writing with meaning.
Author
Reply
Thank you, Lucas!
Thu, May 3rd, 2018 8:57amFacebook Comments
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Mike S.
Boy, am I familiar with this--excellent, Hull--I guess the trick is to not let it stop you?
Wed, May 2nd, 2018 7:28pmAuthor
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Well, I got the inspiration for this from one of your previous posts. I knew you wouldn't mind me turning it into a story.
Wed, May 2nd, 2018 12:34pm