Tips for couples to overcome their anxiety for the sangeet

A couple goes through a lot of emotions on their wedding day. Among the many ceremonies and functions that tire them out, nothing comes close to the performance anxiety and pressure that they feel when they have to get on the dance floor for their sangeet performance. It’s one thing to dance at a party or to a DJ, and its another to get up on stage and have all eyes on you, and it's especially nerve-wracking if either or both of you have two left feet.  

How does one get rid of this anxiety? Kanchi Shah, choreographer and owner of Two Right Feet, has some handy tips.

Stage fright and what to do

The anxiety has more to do with you and your partner getting on stage rather than what you end up doing while dancing, as the last thing you want on your wedding days is to make a fool of yourself. And while people might not stay for every performance, there’s no chance that they’re going to miss seeing you dance. So yes, the pressure is high, higher if you aren’t a good dancer. 

While this is certainly overwhelming, it doesn’t mean that there is no solution. A simple way out is to find a spot on the stage where you don’t have to meet people’s eyes and feel conscious. You can find a blind spot or look at a family member who makes you feel at ease. 

Performing more than dancing

The golden rule is to do things within your comfort zone. If you are nervous about shaking a leg, perform more and dance less, i.e. focus on your expressions and play to your strengths. With the choreographer’s job being to make your performance as easy and stress-free as possible, they could also suggest you lip-syncing or mouthing the lyrics of the song to cover up for the steps. Another way to beat the anxiety is to get your friends on stage to hype you up. They could come with props, lift you up, and ensure that with the amount of swag on show, no one cares if you remembered the steps. 

What the better dancer must do during the performance

Remember that the person right beside you is your partner not just for the dance, but for life. So if you’re the better dancer out of the two, lead the way by holding their hand and exchanging looks that make them feel at ease. It will comfort them and make it easier for them to enjoy and have a blast. Teamwork, after all, makes the dream work.  

Choose the right song

This is the most important part. Meet your choreographer before finalising the songs, so they can figure your and your partner's vibe and choose songs that match your personalities. It doesn’t make sense to pick a song that you don’t associate with, even if it is the most trending song. 

Practice makes you perfect

With so many things on your plate, you may not find the time to practice everyday, but do it till the point where you don’t need a choreographer anymore. That’s the true sign of progress. And on the day of the sangeet, try to reach the venue a little early and get familiar with the space and stage.