Give Em Some Respect!     by Todd Lamanske

Tips for handling spectators

It is important to realize that the number 1 fear in this country is public speaking (even over death). That should tell us that most people aren’t comfortable on stage and in fact, may be downright terrified. As performers, we sometimes forget this because we are used to being in front of a group of people. Let me suggest a few of things:

Be very respectful to your on-stage helpers.

Let’s face it; we would be lost without them. In fact, sometimes they make the show. I have seen many performers bash volunteers just for a laugh. This is a miserable experience for the helper and often results in nervous laughter from your audience. I know a performer who gets someone on stage and then proceeds to molest and basically humiliate the person. Yes, this does get laughs but the person on stage doesn’t know why they are laughing and they feel like the audience is laughing at them. If this person happens to be someone who would rather be dead than be on a stage, then this is a horrifying and miserable experience for him or her.

If possible, let them have a chair.

It’s not always possible to do this, due to the nature of the routine or the availability of a chair but if possible, allow your on-stage helper to be seated while on stage. Think about it; 75% of us are not comfortable with our bodies. We may feel too fat or too skinny or whatever. To be standing on stage is a vulnerable position. Everyone is looking at you and your body. If you can, have them come up and offer them a chair. If height is a problem you can offer them a tall barstool type chair to bring them up to your (standing) level. Again, I realize that sometimes, due to the routine, it isn’t always possible to allow them to sit. The best you can do is be polite and make them feel at ease while they help you. (Remember, you NEED them)

Try asking for help before the show.

On occasion, I have asked for volunteers before my show. I simply look for the right people for my purposes and politely say, “Hi, I’m the entertainment this evening and I’ll be doing a show a little later. Would you mind helping me on stage? I promise not to embarrass you.”  If they say no, just ask someone else. It’s usually not too hard to find someone willing to help.

Part of entertaining is getting an audience to like you. Treat your audience with manners and respect and you’ll go a long way toward winning them over.

Todd Lamanske