Stage fright or
performance anxiety is the
anxiety,
fear, or persistent
phobia which may be aroused in an individual by the requirement to
perform in front of an
audience, whether actually or potentially (for example, when performing before a
camera). In the context of public speaking, this may precede or accompany participation in any activity involving public self-presentation. In some cases stage fright may be a part of a larger pattern of social phobia (
social anxiety disorder), but many people experience stage fright without any wider problems. Quite often, stage fright arises in a mere anticipation of a performance, often a long time ahead. It has numerous manifestations: fluttering or pounding heart,
tremor in the hands and legs, sweaty hands,
facial nerve tics,
dry mouth, and
dizziness.