So You’re Going to Have a Reading: Introductions
So
you’re going to have a reading! Congratulations! Readings can be very fun and
are an excellent opportunity for you to share your work with the world. But for
many the idea of standing in front of a crowd and speaking is a daunting task.
If you are one of those people, have no fear! Here are some tips for the
nervous writer.
Let’s
start at the very beginning, as I’ve been informed that it is a very good place
to start. Introductions! While in most cases there will be a host or moderator
to introduce you before you get up on stage to do your reading, it is always a
good idea to take a moment and connect with the audience before diving in to
your work.
Before
discussing how you will introduce yourself, I feel a few things must be
addressed before we talk about speaking. Before the reading starts take care to
have your papers prepared in the order you want them in. This will cut down on
any awkward, silent moments in front of the audience. Another tip is to make
sure you are standing still and centered at the podium (or stage, or whatever
it is you are speaking on). This may seem like a trivial rule but it is very
important to center yourself and find a bit of stillness for several reasons.
The first being that if you walk on stage talking people are less likely to
hear you and it makes you seemed rushed. By claiming attention at center stage first,
taking a breath, and then starting your introduction, you are far more likely
to have people’s full attention. It is also important to claim the stage as
yours before you start speaking. I don’t mean this in a territorial sort of
way, but rather a sense in which to give you confidence. Remember, the audience
is there for your reading. You have the power and control. Claiming the stage gives
you that extra boost of confidence.
Now
on to the actual speaking! There are many different ways to introduce yourself.
Some people prefer to keep introductions as brief as possible. A quick, “Hello,
my name is ____ and I will be reading a passage from my story/poem, ____” is always
an easy way to get the ball rolling. However, if you are nervous this might not
be the best approach for you. I find that a bit of smiling, talking a bit about
the piece, the context of the passage, and/or a few jokes really helps me
settle into a reading. A little bit of conversation with the audience gets them
engaged and relaxed. It will do the same for you as well. Once you have given
them the necessary information on you and your work, you have set the platform
for the actual reading itself. If you’re still nervous by the end of your
introduction, that’s okay! Just remember to breathe and smile.
-Sarah Stansbury