Facial sweating on stage HELP

[Johnnycantdecide]

Posted: 6/21/11 at 9:22pm

Hey Broadway World peeps!
I have a bit of a problem. I am playing The Cat in the Hat in a production of SEUSSICAL right now.

I don't know if it's nerves (as this is my first lead) or the lights, but I sweat bullets the moment I hit the stage and my face gets amazingly overheated.

Are there any ideas on how to stop my face for sweating? Anything? I'm getting really embarrassed about it.

Posted: 6/21/11 at 9:25pm

It's probably more psychological than anything else--and the kind of thing that (as hard as this is to do) you just have to stop worrying about, and it'll get better. But I know a friend got prescribed some sort of cream from her doctor that helped a lot with her face sweating when she'd figure skate (of all places)...

[CATSNYrevival]

Posted: 6/21/11 at 9:43pm

Can you wear a sweat band under the hat? It might help a little.

[PianoMann]

Posted: 6/21/11 at 11:41pm

Honestly, I understand where you're coming from, but know that there's nothing to be embarrassed about. In the last show I did, by the last few scenes I literally had sweat dripping down my face. It's one thing to be embarrassed that the audience would notice and may see it as out of character (although it would be hard for them to see) but don't be embarrassed around fellow cast members; true actors understand that the combination of adrenaline and stage lighting would make you sweat!

[kidbroadway2]

Posted: 6/21/11 at 11:48pm

I think it's a psychological problem, and honestly I don't think you'll be able to fix it in time. Probably the best thing to remember is to stay grounded and breathe. Best quick fix tips I can give ya.

[Idiot]

Posted: 6/22/11 at 3:04am

Oh, Johnny -- I've had this problem. Anytime I focus intensely on a task where nerves are also involved, I'm suddenly Albert Brooks in the movie BROADCAST NEWS.

It's a type of anxiety response that feeds on itself in an ever expanding cycle. The most helpful thing for me has been this anti-anxiety program called The Linden Method (easily Googled). It helped me more than anything else I tried (from prescriptions to cognitive behavioral therapy).

I did the downloadable version for $99 and I think it was well worth it. My head still sweats under duress sometimes, but it doesn't bother me the way it used to. It also happens less than it used to.

In the meantime, practice short circuiting the worry. Literally think to yourself, "It doesn't matter if I sweat on stage. NOBODY cares." Remember all of the great performers you've seen with beads of sweat hanging off of their noses. You're in great company so try to let it be unimportant.

Best of luck to you.

[Idiot]

Posted: 6/22/11 at 3:04am

(omitted duplicate post) Updated On: 6/22/11 at 03:04 AM