Moments before performances such as the upcoming LHS production of Freaky Friday, actors stand behind the velvet drapes and take deep breaths to prepare their minds and voices for what is to come. 

Some may be shaking from nerves, while others might smile and take the “fake it till you make it” approach. Whichever approach the actor decides to take, the preparations they made leading up to the show can be the difference between a successful showcase or to put it simply, a disaster show.

All the cast members will have to pick which approach they will take on during their shows on April 14, 15, and 16 at the Derry Opera House.

How do performers train before a show? 

Danielle Loschiavo not only teaches choir at LHS, she is also the music director for the school musicals, so she knows how to prepare her students to perform successfully.

Watch these videos below to see how Loschiavo demonstrates warm-ups and explains what each one does for a performer.

In the video below, Mrs.Loschiavo demonstrates a vocal exercise using just her breath and a coffee can.

Chamber choir vocal warmups.

The chamber choir, a selected group of singers directed by Mrs. Locshiavo, warms up using these techniques.