Six Ways to Be More Likeable on Stage
Recently, I
was watching a magic convention show, with several good acts. However, only one
performer received a standing ovation. His magic was done well, but he wasn’t
the best magician of the entire group. He also spoke and told a few jokes, and
even though he got some laughs, he didn’t “kill” with his comedy. Yet, he
was the only performer to get a standing ovation. Later, as I was thinking about
this show, I came upon one word that would explain why he was so successful:
“likeability.”
Since I live near Branson, Missouri, I’m able to see all
types of live entertainment. Some performers can hit the stage and win over the
entire room in 30 seconds, while others will perform for 30 minutes and never
really connect.
Some performers seem to have a naturally likeable
personality, but I feel there are certain techniques we can all employ to be
more likeable. Here are six ideas, which if used will make you more likeable and
make your show more successful.
1. Have a script. I have attended some shows over and over again—maybe
even dozens of times—and the performer always says the exact same lines, show
after show. Even the “spontaneous” ad-libs occur in the same place in the
show.
These ad libs aren’t happy chance occurrences—they’re a
carefully rehearsed and scripted part of the show. The
speaking parts of your entire show should be written down and committed to
memory. A script helps you combine words together in the most audience pleasing
way. You then tinker with the script and tighten it until it’s polished to
perfection. If you’re too long-winded, the audience will turn off, because
you’re wasting their time.
So, having a well-scripted show makes you more likeable, because the audience knows you respect their time. Plus, when you have your lines scripted and memorized, you’re more confident on stage. Performers who project confidence are more likeable. It is very uncomfortable watching performers who are unsure of themselves.
2. Be Well-Rehearsed. This is closely related to using a script. Rehearse the speaking parts of your show, the mechanics of the tricks, and all other actions on stage. I remember watching a magician perform in a talent contest on a cruise ship. His routine involved calling six spectators up from the audience. It was apparent that even though he knew how to perform the effect, he hadn’t rehearsed it with any spectators. The helpers were running into each other and the performer on stage. Other helpers were poorly positioned, so they blocked the view of the effect for a big portion of the audience. Due to the lack of rehearsal, a good routine was reduced to a mess.
3. Speaking of
audience helpers, treat your volunteers nicely while on stage.
Nothing will turn an audience against you more quickly than embarrassing
audience helpers on stage. Treat your helpers with respect, learn and use their
names, make them the star, and the audience will in turn respect and like you.
Whenever I’m performing for adults, before the show I like
to ask the names of a few folks sitting in the first two rows. Then, while I’m
performing the show, I refer to some of these spectators by name, which helps me
to connect with the crowd. You’d be surprised—if you concentrate, you can
easily remember the names of 3 or 4 people in the audience.
4. Make eye contact with the audience. While performing, look the spectators directly in the eye. Don’t look just below them or just above their heads—look them in the eye. And, make sure you play to all parts of the room, not just the first few rows.
5. Be friendly and personable. In other words, don’t act like a big shot, or an important star. Be friendly with everyone you meet before the show, and be approachable. Remember to not take yourself too seriously. In Branson, I’ve found the best-liked personalities are the ones who act like “regular people.” On stage, they’ll tell a few funny stories about themselves, or even reveal some personal information. It’s almost as though you’re having a chat with a friend.
6. Be well dressed. Good grooming and clothing are a must. I enjoy
watching a talk show once in a while, such as David Letterman. Some stars come
out in ripped jeans and a t-shirt. They give off an “I don’t care about the
audience” type of attitude. Then, another star will come out in an expensive
suit, and the reaction and respect is much higher. The audience realizes this
star felt it was important to look their best, and to show respect to the
audience.
So, there are six simple things we can all do to make
ourselves more likeable. It’s fine to perform technically perfect magic, or to
have spectacular special effects in your show. However, this year, I’m going
to strive to become a more likeable performer. I think you’ll agree, that a
likeable performer will be a very successful performer.