Courage Behind the Curtain

By Graceanne Morgan

For as long as I can remember, the stage has been a second home. Whether it’s in theatre, pageants, or speaking engagements, I’ve found such joy in performing. But behind the curtain, before the lights hit, before the curtain rises, there has always been something else: nerves, doubt, and the weight of expectation. I know I’m not alone in this. Performance anxiety is something so many people experience, whether they’re stepping onto a stage, into a classroom, or into any high-pressure situation. We often believe that confidence is something we either have or don’t, but the truth is, it’s something we build. That’s why I created Courage Behind the Curtain — to help not just the state of Arkansas, but anyone in the world who needs to hear how to navigate these moments with strength and resilience. 

A Lesson from the Spotlight 

This past year, I had the incredible opportunity to perform as a Tiger Tunes host at Ouachita Baptist University. It was a thrilling experience—standing on a stage with seven other talented performers, singing and dancing in front of an audience of over 8,000, including the Governor of Arkansas herself! But while I was learning new performance skills, I also felt like I was losing some of the abilities I had relied on for so long. 

In the world of group performance, I had to adjust my style. I had to learn how to blend, how to move in sync, and how to engage with the crowd in a different way than I was used to while performing musical theatre. Suddenly, solo performing felt foreign to me. I struggled to play actions, build character, and interpret a song in the way I once did so naturally. On top of that, I developed bronchitis, which made every performance feel like a battle against my own body. I was terrified of how I sounded, how well I was portraying my character, and, worst of all... I was convinced that the audience was always against me.

 

But I was wrong. 

The audience is never against you. 

That’s a lie performance anxiety tells us—that every mistake is noticed, that every flaw is judged. But the truth is, people want to see you succeed. They aren’t sitting in their seats waiting for you to fail; they’re cheering for you, whether you hear it or not.

 

The Five Steps to Overcoming Performance Anxiety 

Through Courage Behind the Curtain, I share the five key steps that have helped me—and so many others—step into the spotlight with confidence.

1. Recognize the Struggle 

The first step to overcoming performance anxiety is acknowledging it. Pretending it doesn’t exist only gives it more power. Naming our fears takes away their grip. 

2. Surround Yourself with Support 

No one succeeds alone. I’ve learned to lean on mentors, friends, family, and my faith—who remind me of my strength when I forget it myself. 

3. Maintain a Balanced Routine 

Structure creates stability. Sleep, nutrition, and consistent practice all contribute to feeling prepared and grounded. 

4. Embrace Growth over Perfection 

Perfection is an impossible standard. When we shift our focus to growth, we allow ourselves to learn and improve without fear of failure. 

5. Prioritize Self-Care 

Confidence doesn’t come from constant pushing—it also comes from rest, reflection, and moments of stillness. Taking care of ourselves mentally and emotionally is just as important as rehearsing our lines or perfecting our skills.

 

Why This Matters 

Life is full of "performance" moments—whether it’s giving a speech, going for a big opportunity, or even just stepping into a new role. My hope is that Courage Behind the Curtain helps people realize they’re not alone in their struggle. Fear doesn’t define us. Instead, we can use it as fuel to become stronger, braver, and more confident. 

To anyone standing behind the curtain, wondering if they have what it takes: You do. And when the moment comes to step into the light, I hope you remember that courage is already within you. 

You just have to step forward. 

Join the Conversation 

Courage Behind the Curtain is not just my story—it's a journey we can all take together. I invite you to share your own experiences with performance anxiety and the steps you've taken to overcome it. By connecting with others who understand the struggle, we can inspire each other to embrace our fears and walk confidently into the spotlight. 

Together, we can rewrite the narrative of fear and transform it into the power that drives us all forward.  

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Photo by Michelle Roberts and Shawna Hobson

Graceanne Morgan is the currrent Miss Johnson County (AR). You can find her on Instagram at her organization's account, and her personal account.

This is her first guest blog for Section 36 Forevers.