PERFORMANCE TIP — Staying Show-Ready in the Cooler Months
Staying Show-Ready in the Cooler Months
As the days grow colder and rehearsal rooms get chillier, performers of all kinds—dancers, vocalists, and actors—need to be extra mindful of self-care. Whether you're leaping across the stage, projecting your voice to the balcony, or embodying a character through hours of rehearsal, the change in weather can impact your performance if you’re not prepared. Here are some season-specific tips to help you stay healthy, energised, and performance-ready all winter long.
Warm Up With Purpose
Cold weather makes muscles and vocal cords more prone to tension and strain. Dancers should extend their warm-up routines to gradually raise core body temperature and increase flexibility before diving into choreography. Actors and vocalists should also allow time to warm up both body and voice—start with gentle movement and breath work, then transition into vocal exercises to ensure clarity and prevent vocal fatigue.
Dress Smart, Layer Well
Staying warm doesn’t mean sacrificing mobility or vocal freedom. Dancers can benefit from flexible, breathable layers that can be removed as the body warms up. Vocalists and actors should protect their throats with scarves when traveling to and from rehearsals, and keep rehearsal gear on hand—like cozy socks, leg warmers, or shawls—to maintain warmth without restricting movement or posture.
Hydration Isn’t Just for Summer
Heated indoor air and brisk outdoor temperatures both contribute to dehydration, which can dry out vocal cords and tighten muscles. All performers should make hydration a daily priority. Vocalists, especially, should keep water and soothing teas on hand, and consider using steam or humidifiers to support vocal health.
Listen to Your Body
The winter season can be demanding, with competitions and productions, longer nights, and the risk of seasonal illness. Be proactive: don’t push through pain or fatigue. If you’re feeling under the weather, rest and recovery are not luxuries—they’re necessities. Your artistry relies on your body and voice functioning at their best.
Keep Energy Up, Even When the Sun’s Down
Shorter days can zap your energy. Prioritise good nutrition, sleep, and mental wellness to keep your focus and creativity sharp. Whether you're rehearsing routines, monologues, or vocal runs, showing up prepared—physically and mentally—sets you and your cast and team mates up for success.
No matter your discipline, winter wellness is part of your craft. Taking care of your body and voice ensures you're always ready to give your best on stage, even when the temperature drops.