Overcome Stage Phobia

Stage fright, or a fear of public speaking is the common term for Glosophobia.

The best thing you can do is practice and know the material. It's scary enough being on stage, make it easier for yourself and know what you're supposed to say. Practice it enough so that you have it memorized and don't need to look down at note cards. Take five, slow, deep breaths before going on stage. Just remind yourself that no one's judging you, they are interested in what you're saying, and if you mess up, it's likely that no one will even notice. Assure yourself that no matter what happens, everything will be okay.

Try looking just over the heads of the audience. You will appear to be looking at them. If you make a mistake, KEEP GOING. Act like it didn't happen and just continue. It is probable that no one even noticed, but if you make a big deal about it, the audience will remember that. If you get to the point where you're so scared that you think you're about to cry or something, just crack a joke to lighten it up. The best thing you can do to overcome stage fright or any other phobia is to practice doing it, as often as possible. Start out small, and perform in front of a small group of friends, and keep doing until you're comfortable doing it in front of larger crowds.

If you're acting in a play, don't tell the audience you're nervous.Some people will tell you to focus on "one person you know or trust" in the audience. You should not do this because first of all, you aren't always going to have that option, and second, it makes that person feel really uncomfortable.