Hmmm, keeping your eyes open as a singer is a bit of a problem (well for me it is). I'm more likely to forget words/lines if i'm looking at people (and may be at the back of my mind trying to wonder if that guy/lady really is bored stiff or just naturally looks that way) as i find it harder to concentrate - more so if i'm playing whistle which i very occasionally do. S'pose practice, practice and more practice may be the answer. Some folks semm to be just naturals at singing and/or playing at an audience with eyes agape. Wonder if that's why many singers/players on the circuit are teachers or ex teachers (you know, kind of used to 'performing' in front of an audience - classroom?). I've often noted that Vin Garbutt (and other pros)tends to shut his eyes a lot when singing, but then he makes up for it by his great banter and very humourous tales. Oh well.