How can I get rid of nerves on stage for a pageant?!?

Question

I'm going to participate in a pageant in december in front of a large group of people in december. My only problem is, when I get nervous, my voice gets shaky and I start speaking faster. Besides practice, is there any techniques to help me with this?

Any other pageant tips appreciated too. =]

Answer 1

YOu must learn to really love being in the pageant. Let that be your guide. If you really do love it, you will not be nervous, but be focused on what you are doing and enjoy every minute of it.  If all else fails, you could try hypnosis therapy.

Answer 2

I have been in some pageants myself. I love the feeling of being able to show people a beautiful dress. The feeling is amazing.

As for the nerves, I would just say breathe in and out in and out.

Or picture everyone in their underwear(now who looks like the silly ones) :P lol

Just don't be afraid to make a mistake though, because if you are worried about making a mistake, chances are your probably more likly to make one. So don't think about it that much :)

Answer 3

i have been participating in beauty pageants for YEARS now, and i can tell you honestly...it wont be easy if you don'tt picture it as easy.  

you will find that when its showtime and your adrenaline starts pumping, all of the nerves will go away :)  plus, the lights that shine on you while youre onstage are so bright, you will not be able to see anyone but the judges and they are the only ones that matter.

one thing you can do:  practice, practice, practice!  try having people that you dont know that well interview you. if you get someone that youre not extremely familiar with to help you, you will become more comfortable speaking with strangers, which is more than likely the thing youre most nevous about.  use teachers, bosses, neighbors, etc.

also, make sure that  you practice interviewing with your family and best friends.  often times they will be the most honest with you and point out the things that need the most work...more likely than a stranger would

my first pageant was a Miss America preliminary...and i had no clue of it until the day of the show.  that morning, i admit, i was scared out of my mind!  but once i got onstage, i realized i was doing something that everyone dreams of...i was in the spotlight.  its the best feeling in the world!  i was HOOKED :)  the more i participated, the better i became.  now, i run my own beauty pageant!  

embrace the experience.  there is so much opportunity available if you remain diligent and confident.  

hope this helps!  and if you need any other pointers, id be glad to help