Meaning: Alison Lohman's quote reflects the common experience of performance anxiety, a phenomenon that many artists, actors, musicians, and public speakers can relate to. The quote reveals the internal struggle and fear that performers often face before stepping into the spotlight. Lohman's admission that she still gets "really nervous" before each performance is a candid acknowledgment of the emotional and psychological challenges that accompany the act of performing in front of an audience.

The quote also highlights the temporal nature of performance anxiety, as Lohman describes how the nerves "kind of hits about 15 minutes before we go onstage." This time frame is a well-documented phenomenon, often referred to as pre-performance jitters or stage fright. Many performers experience a surge of anxiety and apprehension in the moments leading up to their performance, as they grapple with the pressure to deliver a compelling and flawless presentation.

Lohman's admission that "sometimes I don't even want to go on" underscores the intensity of her pre-show nerves and the depth of her emotional struggle. This sentiment resonates with performers who have grappled with the overwhelming desire to retreat or avoid the impending performance due to the fear and self-doubt that can consume them in those vulnerable moments.

However, the quote also captures the paradoxical nature of performance anxiety, as Lohman states, "But once I'm onstage I'm fine." This sentiment encapsulates the transformative power of performance, as many performers find that once they step onto the stage and immerse themselves in their craft, their nerves dissipate, and they are able to channel their energy and emotions into their performance.

Alison Lohman's quote provides a poignant insight into the inner turmoil and emotional rollercoaster that many performers experience before taking the stage. It humanizes the often-glamorized world of entertainment and serves as a reminder that even successful and seasoned performers are not immune to the vulnerabilities and insecurities that come with the territory.

In the broader context of the performing arts, Lohman's quote sheds light on the universal nature of performance anxiety and the ways in which artists navigate and cope with these challenges. It serves as a reminder that behind the polished façade of a performance lies a complex and often tumultuous inner world, where artists grapple with their fears, doubts, and insecurities before ultimately finding their footing and delivering a captivating performance.

Moreover, Lohman's candidness in sharing her personal experience with performance anxiety can be empowering for other performers who may struggle with similar feelings of nervousness and self-doubt. By openly acknowledging her own pre-show jitters, Lohman offers a sense of solidarity and validation to those who may feel isolated in their struggles with performance anxiety, reminding them that they are not alone in their experiences.

In conclusion, Alison Lohman's quote encapsulates the raw and relatable nature of performance anxiety, offering a glimpse into the inner world of a performer as she grapples with the emotional and psychological challenges of taking the stage. It serves as a reminder of the universal nature of performance anxiety and the transformative power of the stage, while also providing a sense of validation and solidarity to those who may find themselves navigating similar struggles in their own artistic pursuits.