Displaying items by tag: Wicked

Next Time You Do a Presentation – Do a Cynthia Erivo. Last night, Cynthia Erivo delivered a powerhouse performance at the Academy Awards that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Her voice, her presence, and her sheer authenticity reminded us of one of the most crucial aspects of any performance - whether it’s singing, acting, or speaking: connection. 

Watching her perform, it’s clear that there’s so much we can learn from her approach when it comes to speaking and presenting. If you think about it, speaking in front of an audience is much like singing. The principles of connecting with your words, using light and shade, and finding your own unique rhythm apply just as much in the boardroom as they do on stage. Whether you're presenting at work, leading a meeting, or giving a keynote address, it’s time we start thinking about public speaking the same way we think about performance. And who better to learn from than Cynthia Erivo? 

1. Connect with the Words.  Cynthia Erivo doesn’t just sing; she connects with every word she sings. You can hear it in the way she pours emotion into every lyric, making each one resonate with the audience. When you speak, it’s just as important to connect with your words. Don’t just go through the motions - feel the message you're delivering.  A speech isn’t just a list of facts or ideas; it’s a story, a feeling, an experience that you’re sharing with your audience. Whether you're talking about your latest project, presenting a new idea, or giving a speech to inspire others, you need to bring life to your words. Just like Cynthia brings a powerful emotional intensity to her music, bring passion to your presentation. Be invested in what you're saying. People will remember how you made them feel, not just the information you provided. 

2. Think Light and Shade.  One of the things that made Cynthia’s performance at the Oscars so mesmerizing was her ability to play with light and shade in her voice. She didn’t simply belt out her song; she knew when to soften her delivery, build up to a crescendo, and when to let a pause hang in the air. It was a masterclass in vocal dynamics - and it’s something we can apply to our own speaking. Public speaking, much like singing, isn’t about maintaining a constant tone. To keep your audience engaged, you need to vary your delivery - bring in light and shade. You can change your tone, your pace, and your volume to emphasize key points, add emotion, or give the audience a moment to absorb what you've said. Don't be afraid of pauses; they can be just as powerful as a well-timed sentence. Use silence to create suspense, or to give your listeners time to reflect on what you’ve just shared.

3. Make It Your Own.  A key aspect of Cynthia’s performance was how she made the song her own.  The Wicked songs are well known – but she’s given us her own personal take on them.  While the song may have been written by others, her delivery made it feel deeply personal. The same should be true for your presentations. Too often, we try to emulate other speakers or follow the “correct” way of presenting. But your voice, your message, and your delivery should be uniquely yours. When you step onto the stage - whether it's a literal stage or the metaphorical stage of a conference room - make the presentation your own. Infuse it with your personality, your style, your perspective. If you're nervous, embrace it; use it to fuel your energy. When you are authentic and true to yourself, your audience will be more likely to connect with your message. 

4. Perfect Your Stagecraft.  Cynthia Erivo's ability to command the stage with grace, power, and poise is undeniable. But it’s not just about having a beautiful voice; it’s about perfecting her stagecraft. Every step, every gesture, every movement was intentional and calculated to enhance the performance. The same goes for your presentation. Stagecraft in speaking isn’t just about where you stand or what you wear; it’s about using your body to complement your words. Stand tall, move with purpose, and use your hands to emphasize key points. Your body language can convey confidence and help engage the audience. Don’t just stand still behind a podium. Move across the stage if you can, make eye contact with different members of your audience, and let your gestures help tell the story you're sharing.

*5. Consider Your Audience and the Stage.  Another lesson we can take from Cynthia’s performance is how she fully understands her audience and the stage she is performing on. She adjusted her energy and approach to fit the setting. In the same way, your presentation should be tailored to your audience and the environment you are in. What works in a small meeting might not work in front of a large crowd. Similarly, the way you present in a casual setting may differ from the way you present in a formal conference. Before any presentation, take the time to consider your audience. What do they expect? What do they care about? What tone will resonate with them? And think about the setting—whether it’s a small boardroom, a large auditorium, or even a virtual stage. Adjust your delivery accordingly so that your message lands in the most effective way possible. 

6. Embrace Timings, Pace, and Pauses.  If there’s one thing Cynthia Erivo excels at, it’s timing. Her ability to pace her performance and hold a note just long enough, creating dramatic pauses and unexpected moments, makes her one of the most riveting performers of our time. When you present, think about the rhythm of your speech. Don’t rush through your points. Embrace pauses. Silence can be powerful—whether it’s a pause for effect, a moment for your audience to reflect, or a way to build suspense. Use timing to your advantage to emphasize your key points. Pacing is also essential. If you talk too quickly, your audience may struggle to keep up; if you drag out your words too much, you risk losing their attention. Practice speaking at a comfortable pace, and vary the speed depending on what you're trying to convey. If you want to emphasize a point, slow down. If you're telling an exciting story or building up to something, speed up a little to bring energy and excitement to the room. 

In Conclusion.  Cynthia Erivo’s unforgettable performance at the Academy Awards was a masterclass in connection, timing, and authenticity. As we watch her command the stage, we can’t help but draw parallels to the art of public speaking. Just as she connects with every word and uses light and shade to create an emotional journey, we must learn to connect with our words, master our delivery, and tailor our performances for our audience. 

The next time you prepare for a presentation, channel a bit of Cynthia Erivo's energy. Don’t just speak—perform. Connect with your words, find your rhythm, embrace pauses, and most importantly, make it your own. When you step onto the stage, remember that speaking is an art—and with the right approach, you too can deliver a performance that leaves a lasting impression.

For more about our presentation skills training programmes visit:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training