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Lea Michele Details Pre-Show Ritual to Tame Stage Fright During Broadway’s Chess

She says a brief call with her mother helps her center herself before going on at the Imperial Theatre.

Overview

  • Michele, 39, tells People she still experiences stage fright frequently despite decades of performing.
  • She works to reframe nerves as excitement or as a sign that the work matters.
  • She says she calls her mother at the five-minute call to ground herself before each performance.
  • Critics are praising her turn as Florence Vassy, which she describes as the most challenging role of her career.
  • She notes that onstage mishaps occur and that performers move forward, with audiences often embracing the spontaneity.