Shake your Sillies Out

Last night I went to a Broadway show. Not your typical theatrical play. This was an artist-in- residence series featuring one of my favorites, Regina Spektor, an accomplished singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist. 

From the start it was evident that Regina was soaking in the reality that she had made it to a Broadway stage. Remarkable for anyone, let along a Russian immigrant who arrived in New York City with her parents when she was just 9 years old. 

The storied past of Broadway’s Lunt-Fontanne theatre was somewhat unnerving even for this immense talent with 7 albums, 2 live albums and countless concert appearances under her belt. 

So how did she handle that? She sat down on her piano bench, extended her arms, twisted them around each other and let out a big sigh before whispering “Brrrrrroadway” into the microphone. The crowd loved it. 

Before another song she lifted herself slightly from the piano bench, adjusted the bow on her dress and just “shook the sillies out”. Again, the crowd applauded. 

And at the end, when Regina brought out a "special friend" to sing one song, and that friend happened to be LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA, she again showed her authentic self, giggles and all.

I’m reminded of the times our nerves act up before speaking to a group of employees, clients or investors. Even though we are clear on the purpose and business message, anxiety can kick in and distract us. Wouldn’t it be better if we acknowledged the nerves in our own way so the audience could actually have a little peek into who we are and how much we care about what we are sharing?

Check out this video... Regina Spektor with Lin-Manuel Miranda on Broadway, June 21, 2019