Performing, whether on stage or screen, often involves more than just talent and preparation. For many celebrities, a key part of delivering a great performance lies in connecting with the people around them, be it their co-stars, bandmates, or even the audience. Establishing rapport, fostering camaraderie, and building emotional connections before stepping into the spotlight can make all the difference. Some of the most successful performers have developed their own pre-performance rituals and methods to warm up these connections. In this article, we explore the advice from top celebrities on how to create strong bonds before a performance and how this contributes to their success.
1. Emma Stone: Creating a Safe Space Through Trust
Academy Award-winning actress Emma Stone emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment before a performance. For Stone, trust among co-stars is key to delivering authentic performances, especially in emotionally charged scenes. “If you don’t feel safe with your fellow actors, it’s hard to take risks,” Stone has said in interviews. Her method of warming up connections involves candid conversations with her co-stars before filming begins. Whether it’s sharing personal stories or discussing the emotional arc of the characters, Stone finds that taking the time to build trust allows everyone to feel more comfortable and confident on set.
Stone’s advice for aspiring performers is to focus on open communication. “Let your guard down, and allow others to do the same. When you create a space where vulnerability is welcomed, it leads to deeper connections both off-screen and on-screen.”
2. Beyoncé: The Power of Team Rituals
For global superstar Beyoncé, fostering connection before a live performance is essential. With her tight-knit team of dancers, musicians, and backup singers, Beyoncé often engages in pre-show rituals to unify everyone and get into the right mindset. One of her most well-known practices is gathering her entire team for a prayer circle before going on stage. This ritual, Beyoncé says, helps her stay grounded and reminds everyone of the collective effort that goes into a successful performance.
Beyoncé has spoken about how these rituals create a sense of family among her team. “We all have to be on the same wavelength to put on the best show possible,” she explained. By centering the team’s energy and focusing on shared intentions, Beyoncé strengthens the bond between herself and her collaborators, ensuring that everyone is ready to give their all.
Her advice to performers? “Find your own team ritual. Whether it’s a chant, a group hug, or a prayer, come together with your team before you step on stage. It creates unity and focus.”
3. Hugh Jackman: Warm Up Through Laughter
Hugh Jackman, known for his roles in action-packed films like Wolverine and his musical performances in The Greatest Showman, swears by the power of humor to create connection before a performance. Jackman believes that laughter breaks down barriers and helps foster positive relationships with co-stars and crew members. Whether he’s joking around on set or sharing funny stories before going on stage, Jackman uses humor to ease tension and make everyone feel more comfortable.
Jackman’s easy-going nature helps to break the ice, even in high-pressure situations. He explains, “The atmosphere on set can sometimes be really intense, especially during big scenes. I like to keep things light to remind everyone that we’re in this together and to enjoy the process.”
For performers looking to warm up connections, Jackman’s advice is simple: “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Find moments to share a laugh with your team—it’ll relax everyone and help create a more collaborative and enjoyable working environment.”
4. Lady Gaga: Connecting Through Empathy and Energy Sharing
Lady Gaga, known for her dramatic and often avant-garde performances, places immense value on emotional connection. Whether performing for thousands of fans or working with her band and dancers, Gaga believes that empathy is the foundation of strong relationships. Before a show or a film shoot, she takes time to connect with her collaborators on an emotional level, discussing their mental and emotional states. This helps her understand how others are feeling and allows her to adjust her own energy to complement the team’s dynamic.
In interviews, Gaga has shared that her pre-performance ritual often includes grounding exercises, where she and her team focus on breathing and energy sharing. “We need to be on the same frequency, especially when performing something deeply emotional,” she explained. For Gaga, it’s not just about being in sync artistically but also emotionally.
Her advice for performers is to “always check in with the people you’re working with. Know where their energy is, and make sure you’re sharing yours in a way that supports the whole group. When you perform with empathy, it resonates with the audience, too.”
5. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Building Camaraderie Through Teamwork
Action star and former professional wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is a firm believer in the power of teamwork. Before filming or stepping into the ring, Johnson focuses on building camaraderie with his colleagues. Known for his warm, approachable demeanor, Johnson makes an effort to get to know his co-stars and crew on a personal level, from the makeup artists to the directors. He believes that by taking the time to understand the strengths and needs of each person on set, everyone feels more valued and motivated to work together.
One of Johnson’s favorite ways to warm up connections is through physical activity. Before a big scene, he often gathers his team for a workout or a quick group stretch. “Sweating together breaks down walls,” he says. “When you’re all working towards a common physical goal, it strengthens your bond.”
Johnson’s advice to performers is to “remember that you’re only as strong as your team. Whether it’s through a workout, a shared meal, or just hanging out between takes, take the time to build real connections with the people you’re working with.”
6. Adele: Bonding Over Common Ground
Singer Adele, known for her powerhouse vocals and emotional performances, has a more relaxed approach to building connections before performing. Adele values genuine relationships with her bandmates and team members, and she often bonds with them by finding common ground—whether it’s discussing shared experiences or bonding over a mutual love of music.
In interviews, Adele has talked about how she loves to have casual conversations and listen to music with her band before going on stage. “We’re all in this together, and it’s important to feel like we’re all friends. I find that just talking and sharing music gets everyone in the right mood.”
Her advice for performers looking to build connections is simple: “Be yourself, and find the things you have in common with your team. Whether it’s a song, a joke, or a shared experience, use that to build a bond.”
7. Will Smith: Focus on Positive Energy and Support
Will Smith is known not only for his charisma on screen but also for his infectious positivity. Before a performance, Smith makes it a point to radiate positive energy and offer words of encouragement to those around him. He believes that by focusing on creating a positive and supportive atmosphere, he can help lift the entire team’s spirits and energy, leading to better performances.
Smith’s approach to warming up connections includes giving compliments, showing appreciation, and maintaining a sense of humor. “If you’re positive and upbeat, it spreads,” Smith says. “People feel more confident and ready to give their best when they feel supported.”
His advice to performers is to “be a source of positivity. Acknowledge the hard work of the people around you, give them encouragement, and watch how it changes the dynamic. Positive energy is contagious, and it makes a huge difference in how you and your team perform.”
8. Jennifer Lopez: Preparation Equals Connection
For Jennifer Lopez, preparation is key to feeling connected before a performance. Lopez is known for her incredible work ethic, and she believes that being well-prepared is the best way to foster trust and connection with her team. Before any show or film shoot, Lopez spends time rehearsing with her band, dancers, and co-stars. This rehearsal time isn’t just about perfecting the performance; it’s also about building chemistry and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Lopez’s advice to performers is to “prepare, prepare, prepare. When you’re prepared, you’re confident, and that confidence helps build trust with the people you’re working with. It’s all about knowing that everyone has done the work and is ready to perform at their best.”
For celebrities, warming up connections before a performance is just as important as the performance itself. Whether it’s through shared rituals, open communication, laughter, or even physical activity, these stars understand that building strong bonds with their co-stars, crew, and teams is essential to delivering a successful and authentic performance. From Beyoncé’s team prayers to Hugh Jackman’s humor, each celebrity offers valuable insights into how connection can enhance not only their personal experiences but also the overall quality of their performances.
