Get stage fright
Meaning
To experience intense nervousness or anxiety before performing in front of an audience.
Origin
Before the formalization of theatre, performers might speak of "nerves" or "cold feet," but the specific terror of the "stage" gained its own name in the 19th century. As grand playhouses emerged and audiences grew, the pressure on actors and public speakers intensified dramatically. It wasn't just general anxiety; it was the unique, paralyzing fear that gripped individuals when stepping into the spotlight. The phrase "stage fright" was coined to capture this profound psychological strain, vividly describing the sudden, chilling grip of fear that often accompanies public performance, making the very planks beneath one's feet feel like a precipice.
Examples
- Even experienced actors can sometimes get stage fright before a big opening night.
- I always get stage fright right before I have to give a presentation, even if I'm fully prepared.