3 Tips to Conquering Chaos as an MC
The typical Nigerian event is always a glorious celebration filled with laughter, joy, and enough aso ebi to rival a peacock’s wardrobe. But even the most meticulously planned owambe, award ceremony, musical concert or church program can take an unexpected turn. That’s where you, the master of ceremonies (MC), step in – the captain of calm amidst the potential storm.
Every professional MC have experienced atleast one chaos in an event. The microphone decides to sing opera instead of your intro. The guest speaker gets stuck in traffic (Lagos traffic, no surprises there). Maybe even the caterers forget the jollof rice. But with a cool head and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can transform these unexpected challenges into triumphs.
Tip 1: Be the Master of Adaptability
Imagine this: you’re about to introduce the chief guest, but they’re nowhere to be found. Instead of panicking, think on your feet. Briefly acknowledge the delay with a lighthearted joke (maybe about Lagos traffic woes) and use the time to engage the audience. Mention a fun fact about the upcoming speech or tell a quick anecdote related to the event’s theme. This keeps the energy up and assures everyone you’re in control. That is why you have to come to every event well prepared.
I had an experience at wedding ceremony I anchored some time ago, the groom’s family arrived fashionably late. But instead of dwelling on the wait, I used the opportunity to ask the Dj to play a beat and asked the audience to sing their favorite nursery poem alongside the beat. By the time the groom’s entourage arrived, the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation and good vibes.
Tip 2: Embrace the Power of “Plan B”
While you can’t predict every hiccup, having a backup plan for common issues is a lifesaver. Keep a few interesting stories or jokes in your back pocket in case a speaker cancels or a presentation runs short.
If you are anchoring a business conference for example, and a projector malfunction threatens a key presentation, quickly switched gears and lead the audience in an interactive Q&A session with the presenter. This will not only fill the time but also generate lively discussion, making the session even more engaging.
Tip 3: Be a smooth talker
When the unexpected strikes, avoid rambling or using filler words like “um” and “uh.” Take a deep breath, speak clearly, and project confidence. Your calmness will reassure the audience that everything is under control.
Live saver Tip: Network is Your Net
Build a strong rapport with the event organizers and backstage crew. Knowing who to contact in case of an issue can make a world of difference. They can be your eyes and ears, letting you know of any behind-the-scenes developments that might affect your flow.
Remember, a great MC isn’t just about flawless introductions and witty remarks. It’s about the ability to navigate the unexpected with grace, humor, and a touch of your own magic. So, go forth, conquer those owambe obstacles, and keep the celebration flowing!
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