Recently, I had the opportunity to watch Sing Sing, a film that tells the inspiring story of inmates at the famed Sing Sing prison who participated in a transformative program called Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA). This powerful film, enacted predominantly by actual RTA participants, centers around a character named Divine G, played by the incredible Colman Domingo. Divine G is an inmate wrongfully convicted of a crime, but he discovers a renewed sense of purpose through his involvement in a theater group alongside other incarcerated men. The film’s portrayal of how the essential elements of acting—trusting oneself and others, and being emotionally vulnerable—can fundamentally change lives deeply resonated with me as a professional actor.
The Moment That Highlighted A Key Performance Concept
One particular scene in the film struck a chord with me so profoundly that it prompted me to take down notes right in that moment in the theatre. It occurred during a rehearsal where the RTA company was working on a Shakespearean play. The director was guiding Divine Eye, played by Clarence ‘Divine Eye’ Maclin himself, through a monologue from Hamlet. Divine Eye, a new and cautious member of the acting group, initially delivered the monologue with a modern street sensibility that clashed with the royal demeanor of the character Hamlet.
The director then introduced a critically important concept for any actor: the moment before. He explained that when actors enter a stage fully embodying a character, they must be aware of what their character has experienced or where that character has “been” the moment before they step onto that stage. This meant that Divine Eye needed to fully embrace the princely bearing and royal presence of Hamlet before stepping into the spotlight. The subtle yet powerful shift this created in his performance completely transformed his portrayal of Hamlet. It left me feeling deeply moved. I was reminded of the time I spent in acting classes in New York City, where I learned that same concept of the moment before.
That sounds interesting, Eleni, but how does the concept of The Moment Before apply to my work as a leader, a communicator, or a speaker?
The truth is, the principle of the moment before can significantly enhance your effectiveness in these roles.
Before stepping into a meeting or a speaking engagement, the mental and emotional state you place yourself in during the moments just prior can greatly influence your presence and performance. If you take a moment to consciously relax, center yourself, and connect with your purpose and value—standing tall, shoulders back, and maintaining a positive mindset—you will bring a more impactful and charismatic presence.
Consider this: it takes less than seven seconds to make a first impression. What you think and feel in the moments leading up to a meeting or presentation can affect that first impression you make and the moments that follow. Thoughts create beliefs, which create behavior. If your pre-event thoughts are focused on anxiety or self-doubt, you’re more likely to deliver a performance that lacks confidence. Conversely, if you focus on your message, your ability to deliver it, and the value you bring, you’ll likely present yourself with greater impact.
How you handle the moment before can make all the difference. The next time you’re preparing to step into a meeting or deliver a presentation, remember the confident, relatable leader you already are. Embrace that moment before to set yourself up for success, and witness the profound difference it can make.
Want to explore maximizing your abilities as a speaker and communicator? Let’s talk!
Eleni Kelakos, CSP The Speaker Whisperer®