Preparing For A Talent Show
By David Fishman
Preparing for a Talent Show

Are you feeling the need to strut your stuff?  Singing, dancing, and magic tricks are just a few of the talents often seen in talent shows.  Many people find performing in local talent shows to be an excellent way to highlight their ability, get exposure for a budding career, or just have fun showing off their favorite hobby.  Especially in recent years talent shows are getting national exposure with programs like American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, and Rockstar SuperNova.  These glorified talent shows are launching some pretty lucrative careers for their contestants and winners.  Let’s take a look at what you can do to get ready to take center stage.
It may be fairly obvious, but the first step is to decide which of your many talents you want to show in this particular show.  Singing and dancing are always popular choices or you could perform using both talents.  Magic tricks that are well performed are usually crowd pleasers with audiences and judges alike.  It could be that your talents lie in a less obvious way.  Poetry readings and story telling are both unique takes on what is perceived as a talent.  Whichever talent you choose to showcase make sure you are comfortable performing it in front of an audience full of people.
The next step in your preparation is practice.  That’s it; just practice.  In all seriousness, work up a routine you do well and are sure you can do without any major mishaps.  This would also be the time to choose an outfit or ensemble that will compliment your talent.  As critics of Janet Jackson would say,

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an outfit for dance should stay in its proper place.  Odds are good that a wardrobe malfunction is the last thing you want while on stage.  During this practice time, use friends and family as judges and for positive critiques.  Hopefully they will care enough to be both truthful and kind.  As members of your audience they know what they would like to see or hear.  Be careful not to practice your routine to the point that you hate it and are tired of it.  Boredom will show to the judges and audience when it comes time for the curtain to rise.
On show night it is a good idea to be present at the venue early.  That way last minute scheduling changes won’t take you by surprise.  You will also have time to get acquainted with the stage and environment.  If there was a dress rehearsal, this may not be as important.  However being ready and prepared is vitally important to your debut success.  This is also an excellent opportunity to get to know the other contestants and scope out the competition.  After you have double-checked any equipment you may using and made sure your costume is ready, you can relax and wait for your moment to shine.
This is it.  The moment of truth is at hand.  Take a deep breath, relax, and get ready to make talent show history.

David Marc Fishman has started a free talent show for all performers. Performers will be able to audition, and compete in the talent show. Performers/artists are able to setup their own sites and sell their own products.