With the recent sad passing of the iconic and legendary entertainer, Tina Turner, I have been thinking about what we can learn from her in terms of stage presence when delivering a speech or presentation.
Public speaking is an art form that requires more than just eloquence and charisma; it demands the ability to connect with an audience on a deeper level. Beyond her musical talents, Tina Turner was renowned for her electrifying performances and was definitely someone who had effortlessly mastered the art of commanding stage presence.
So how can we inject a bit of that into our public speaking to take it to another level?
Authenticity and Confidence
Tina's stage presence was rooted in her unwavering authenticity and unapologetic confidence. She embraced her unique identity, style, and voice, captivating audiences with her genuine self-expression.
As public speakers, we need to be authentic and comfortable in our own skin. So embrace your true self, speak from the heart and exude confidence in your ideas and delivery. When you believe in yourself, others will believe in you too.
Commanding Physicality
I never saw Tina in concert but from footage I’ve seen of her performances, her dynamic physicality on stage was spectacular. She moved with purpose, grace and an undeniable energy that drew all eyes to her.
In public speaking, body language is a powerful tool. Pay attention to your posture, gestures, and movements; the bigger the audience, the bigger you can be in terms of your presence and movement. Use your body to convey enthusiasm, passion and engagement. By harnessing your physicality, you can captivate your audience and make a lasting impact.
Bonding With the Audience
Tina Turner had an extraordinary ability to connect with her audience, making them feel seen and involved. She made eye contact, engaged with individuals and created a sense of intimacy in even the largest arenas.
Similarly, in public speaking this connection is vital. Take the time to connect with your audience on a personal level. Make eye contact with individuals in the audience, smile and project your energy towards them. Engage them through gestures, expressions and interactions to create a sense of intimacy and involvement and make them an integral part of your ‘performance’.
Powerful Vocal Delivery
Tina had an unmatched vocal prowess that left audiences in awe. Her commanding voice projected confidence, emotion and conviction.
When speaking in public, your voice is your most potent instrument. Develop a strong and resonant voice that carries your message effectively. Vary your tone, pace, and volume to emphasize key points and maintain audience engagement. Practice vocal exercises to enhance your delivery and ensure your words are heard with clarity and impact.
Storytelling and Emotional Connection
A master storyteller, Tina was able to draw audiences into the narratives of her songs with strong emotion.
Similarly, in public speaking, storytelling is a powerful tool for engaging and inspiring your listeners. When you’re drafting your presentation, craft a compelling narrative that evokes emotions and creates a personal connection. Share relevant anecdotes, personal experiences or examples to make your message relatable and memorable. By weaving storytelling into your speeches, you can connect emotionally and leave a lasting impact on your audience.
Showmanship and Stagecraft
Tina Turner was a consummate showwoman, utilising stagecraft to create captivating experiences. She paid attention to every detail, from her wardrobe to the set design, ensuring that every element enhanced the overall impact of her performance.
When presenting, embrace the art of showmanship by crafting your stage presence beyond just the content of your talk. Pay attention to your attire, props, slide design and stage setup to create a cohesive visual and sensory experience for your audience.
Energy and Stage Presence
Perhaps one of the most exceptional aspects of Tina Turner's stage presence was her unparalleled energy. She radiated absolute enthusiasm, passion and joy in every performance.
As a speaker, it is crucial to bring focused energy to the stage and be in the moment. Infuse your speeches with enthusiasm, positive energy and a genuine passion for your topic. Engage your audience through being fully present and create an environment that encourages participation and connection to ensure your message is remembered long after you stop speaking.
The world will certainly mourn the passing of this rock ‘n’ roll legend; her talent and charisma entertained audiences for decades. There will never be another Tina Turner but fortunately her extraordinary stage presence has been recorded for all time and we can learn so much from this phenomenal woman that can be incorporated into our own audience interactions. And I’ll certainly continue to channel my inner Tina Turner whenever I sing Proud Mary!
Mel Sherwood is a Pitch and Presentation Specialist and Founder of The RED Effect™. She works with business leaders, teams and individuals who want to express themselves with confidence, credibility and charisma. An Australian now based in Scotland, Mel is an award-winning speaker, trainer and coach and combines over 25 years’ experience in business with a background as an actor, presenter and singer.