How to Increase Your Stage Presence for an Upcoming Tour
If you're getting ready to go on tour, it's important to make sure that your stage presence is up to par. After all, this is your chance to show off your stuff and really connect with your fans. And while they might be seeing your band because they love your music, you will want to give them a live experience they can remember with backdrops, stage scrims, lighting and more.
Here are a few ideas to help you increase your stage presence and make the most of your band's upcoming tour.
Stage Backdrops
A band backdrop is a great way to immediately show off your band's latest record or display art related to your band. It's memorable and quickly displays your overall branding / messaging.
When it comes to your stage backdrop, think about what kind of message you want to convey. Do you want something that's simple and clean, or do you want something that's more elaborate and pops with color? You can also use a backdrop to promote the tour package or a new album.
Larger stages mean larger backdrops. Your backdrop should be big enough so that it can be seen from the back of the venue. This way, everyone in the audience will be able to see it and appreciate it.
Stage Scrims
Scrims are another great way to add some extra dimension to your stage. They can be hung from the ceiling or set up on the floor in front of your band, typically in front of speaker cabs. And depending on how they're lit, they can create some really cool visual effects that leave a lasting memory on showgoers.
Stage scrims come in all sorts of colors and sizes, so you'll be able to find something that fits your band's style. Consider tying in your stage scrims to a new album or to help promote the tour package.
Drum Risers
Give some props to your drummer with a drum riser. Not only do they make your band look more professional, but they also give your drummer a little extra height to make them stand out on the stage.
Drum risers are easy to build and immediately add an eye-catching element to your stage presence. Plus, you can outfit a drum riser with a skirt that reflects your band's branding, latest record or other art.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of your stage presence. Not only does it set the mood for your gig, but it can also be used to create some really stunning visual effects.
When choosing lighting for your stage, it's important to think about what kind of look you're going for. Should the lighting align with components of your songs (i.e., a big cymbal crash) or with the vibe of the venue? Consider your band's music and overall image when making this decision.
Remember, larger stages mean more lights and you'll probably want to consider a lighting director for your set. This person will control all lighting effects and is a huge asset to your stage presence.
Other Essentials
With your stage presence covered, the next step is to move on to other aspects of the tour to create a memorable experience for the fans. Consider custom VIP laminates, t-shirts, hoodies, stickers and other types of tour merch. Not only do you add to the fan's experience with these essentials, you also create long-lasting organic advertising for your band.