This video clip with Eric Bana and Leslie Mann is from the trailer for their new movie Funny People.

In a BackStage magazine interview, Mann says she is terrible at auditioning. “I get so scared, and I can’t seem to get out of my head,” she admits.

She appreciates casting directors who are patient with her, and notes there were many who were rude. “The people who responded to me were the people I respected,” she says.

“I remember the people who were rude and dismissive; I would watch the TV show or movie they cast, and it was always a piece of shit. Always. And the people who responded to me or were kind to actors, they always made the good stuff. So when people are being assholes, you might as well not waste your time and walk away..”

Good advice. Many actors get anxious about auditions, about not getting work, dealing with difficult people, and other issues that are kind of built in to the profession.

Energy psychiatrist Judith Orloff, M.D. works with many actors to help them overcome anxiety.

She says one approach is using beta blockers or Inderal, a medication to reduce stage fright by decreasing the fight or flight response.

But she thinks a better way is a three minute mini-meditation she teaches her clients, and includes in her book Emotional Freedom.

It helps people “learn how to breathe, center themselves, let their thoughts flow by, and focus on something really nurturing and positive for three minutes, which is a better way to shift your anxiety and really own the moment.”

Dr. Orloff also writes about how to deal with energy vampires, like some casting directors, acting coaches and, really, people in any field.

BackStage interview article: Isle of Mann

Audio interview with Judith Orloff, M.D.

Book: Emotional Freedom, by Judith Orloff.

Non-drug help for stage fright etc: Anxiety Relief Solutions

Acting articles

Talent Development Resources

07.23.09 |
  Get more information and resources in the Developing Talent Newsletter
    Personal Growth Products / Programs       Anxiety Relief Programs.

Related Articles

• Judith Orloff, MD on helping actors deal with anxiety
• Entertainment psychology – Nerves and attitude impact your acting
• Performance anxiety products – Deal with stage fright and insecurity to be a more powerful actor
• Edie Falco on her anxiety
• Amanda Seyfried on anxiety and having an edge in acting