After the Ball is Over: Rediscovering Your Identity as a Human and Performing Artist

Stepping off the stage after a performance can feel like stepping into a void. For many opera singers and performing artists, your identity often intertwines with your career and the music you bring to life. When the curtain falls, you might find yourself asking, "Who am I beyond the spotlight?" Rediscovering your identity after the stage is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. Here, I share practical tips and real struggles that can help you navigate this transition.

Empty dressing room with opera costume hanging, symbolizing transition from stage to self

Facing the Silence After the Applause

The applause fades, and suddenly, the music stops. This silence can feel overwhelming. Many opera singers experience a deep sense of loss or confusion when they are no longer performing. Your career might have defined your daily routine, your social circle, and your sense of purpose. Without that structure, it’s easy to feel unmoored.

You might struggle with questions like:

• What defines me if I’m not on stage?

• How do I fill the time that was once devoted to rehearsals and performances?

• Can I find joy outside of music?

  
  

Recognizing these feelings is the first step. They are common among performing artists, and you are not alone.

Reconnecting with Your Passions Beyond Music

Music and opera have been central to your life, but rediscovering your identity means exploring interests outside your career. This doesn’t mean abandoning music; it means expanding your world.

Try these approaches:

• Explore new hobbies: Painting, writing, cooking, or even gardening can open new doors. For example, one opera singer I know took up photography and found it gave her a fresh way to express creativity.

• Volunteer or teach: Sharing your skills with others can provide a sense of purpose. Teaching voice lessons or working with youth music programs connects you to your passion in a new way.

• Travel or change your environment: Sometimes a new setting helps you see yourself differently. Even a weekend getaway can spark new ideas about who you are.

  
  

Building a New Routine That Supports You

Your career likely demanded a strict schedule. Without it, you might feel lost or unproductive. Creating a new routine can help you regain control and build confidence.

Consider:

• Setting daily goals that are not related to music

• Incorporating physical activity like yoga or walking to support mental health

• Scheduling regular social time with friends or fellow artists who understand your journey

  
  

For example, a former opera singer I spoke with found that starting each day with journaling helped her process emotions and set intentions beyond her career.

Embracing the Emotional Struggles

It’s normal to face emotional challenges during this transition. Feelings of grief, anxiety, or even depression can arise. Performing artists often tie their self-worth to their career achievements, so stepping away can feel like losing a part of yourself.

Here are some ways to cope:

• Seek support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a counselor who understands the unique pressures of performing artists.

• Practice mindfulness: Meditation or breathing exercises can help manage stress and keep you grounded.

• Allow yourself time: Identity shifts don’t happen overnight. Be patient and gentle with yourself.

  
  

Finding New Ways to Express Yourself

Even if you step back from performing, your creative spirit still needs an outlet. Finding new ways to express yourself can be healing and empowering.

Ideas include:

• Writing about your experiences as an opera singer

• Composing music or experimenting with different genres

• Collaborating with other artists on projects that don’t require performing

  
  

These activities can help you maintain a connection to your artistic self while exploring new dimensions of your identity.

Planning for Your Future Beyond the Stage

Thinking about your future can feel daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to redefine success on your own terms. Some opera singers transition into related fields like directing, coaching, or arts administration. Others pursue entirely new careers.

Steps to consider:

• Identify skills you’ve gained through your career, such as discipline, communication, and creativity

• Research new fields or education opportunities that interest you

• Network with professionals outside of music to broaden your perspective

  
  

Remember, your career as a performing artist has equipped you with valuable tools that can open doors in many areas.

Listen to Harbour for the Arts Podcast. https://harbour-for-the-arts.simplecast.com/episodes/how-to-rediscover-your-identity-after-the-stage