Renowned theater, television, and film actor Uroš Jakovljević, a permanent member of the acting ensemble of Atelje 212 Theater in Belgrade, delivered an inspiring introduction to his workshop for our students. The focus was on managing stage fright, with special emphasis on public speaking and building personal confidence.
We discussed how medicine and psychology explain social anxiety, what symptoms we can recognize, how to categorize them, and which techniques can help overcome them. The emphasis was on practical tools—from stage exercises and controlled movements to understanding the inner mechanisms that cause stage fright.
Uroš revealed fascinating insights, such as why focusing on breathing can sometimes be counterproductive, how to interpret physiological reactions like sweaty palms or blushing, and which techniques can “trick” the nervous system to help us overcome fear and reach our full potential.
The workshop was designed to support not only those who perform on stage or in front of cameras but also anyone looking to feel comfortable and confident in various social situations. Whether you are a corporate employee, lawyer, scientist, startup founder, or simply wish to refine your public speaking skills, the knowledge gained from this workshop is invaluable.
What made the workshop unique was Uroš’s approach, combining expertise, practical advice, and personal experiences. Through interactive examples, students had the opportunity to try techniques on the spot and debunk common myths about stage fright.
We thank Uroš for sharing the secrets of stagecraft, which transcend the theater and help all of us approach challenges with greater confidence, fully enjoying the important and exciting moments of our lives.
