Researchers believe that stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, can stem from a combination of physiological, psychological, and situational factors. One contributing factor is the body’s natural stress response. When individuals face a performance situation, their body may trigger the fight-freeze-or-flight response and they may literally freeze in place.
Psychological factors also play a role in stage fright. Self-consciousness, fear of judgment or criticism, and concerns about making mistakes or being embarrassed in front of others can contribute to performance anxiety. And situational factors surrounding the performance can increase the stress–like being on the Britain’s Got Talent stage in front of thousands of people!
So it’s no surprise, really, that 22-year-old Travis George was nervous when he took the stage. And, while it’s more extreme than most of the other contestants, it’s not really a big surprise that he found himself unable to answer Simon’s impromptu questions. After all, plenty of actors and politicians who regularly speak in front of crowds say they get stage fright all the time.
What was a surprise, however, was what happened when Travis started singing. From the minute he launched into “Stars” from the musical Les Miserables, it was clear that he had nothing to be afraid of. His voice was incredible and his performance left his mother, members of the audience and even himself in tears. Watch the amazing audition below and please leave us a Facebook comment to let us know what you thought!
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