Book Description

This volume completes, with An Actor Prepares and Building a Character, the trilogy in which Stanislavski set down his life's accomplishment.
Creating a Role describes the elaborate preparation that precedes actual performance. Stanislavski here relates the techniques he describes in his preceding books to analyzing specific plays and their roles. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good
There is nothing "simple" about acting & this wordy, detailed book will prove it. Though written in so much deep detail that it can be off-putting to some, if you are serious about acting you will learn so much necessary skill from this book.

More Than Acting!
I Think that this book is wonderful!it is a book you should get if you are seriouse about acting!...however i don't agree with the review above saying that acting is simple,of course all you need to do is remenber an emotion and act it,but it would depend on how good and deep your performance is,it's like saying singing is just about opening your mouth and putting a sound out,you need techniques to sing very good,same thing for acting...

One Of The BEST!
This book shocked me. In buying it I had envisioned receiving an "okay" book. I was so wrong. This book is incredible. I found myself highlighting/making notes/and never letting the book close. This book helps the actor who really, really needs help. It sounds odd, but this book can make you an incredible actor. True, it can't start you in Hollywood! However it provides insight on how to be a great actor, no matter if Hollywood becons. Buy the book, you won't be disappointed! I promise ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Primer Textbook
I'm an absolute beginner in makeup, even though I'm in my 30's. My recent interest in Theatrical makeup led me to buy this book. I was EXTREMELY delighted to find clear pictures presented on a variety of faces and skin types. The book is layed out very like a college text with examples and exercises. I found it VERY useful in developing a solid foundation (hee hee!) in doing my own and others makeup.

The Very Best Primer in the Biz
At last--a makeup book that doesn't aspire to be the encyclopedic end-all; instead, it teaches techniques that all theatre students should master for the roles they play most often. The full-color photos are second to none, and Thudium's recommendations for makeup products that are kind to young actors' faces -- such as Mehron's wonderful Celebre line -- make this an ideal text for advanced high school students as well as for those attending colleges and universities. I've always been a Corson devotee, but this excellent source has convinced me that, while Corson's book should be available for reference, Thudium's book should be number one on the high school, college, or university instructor's list. ... Read more

Book Description

Shaw radically reworks Ovid's tale with a feminist twist: while Henry Higgins successfully teaches Eliza Doolittle to speak and act like a duchess, she adamantly refuses to be his creation. First produced in 1914, it remains one of Shaw's most popular plays.

The Definitive Text under the editorial supervision of Dan H. Laurence
With an Introduction by Nicholas Grene ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The guttersnipe who becomes a lady
Even if all of George Bernard Shaw's other works are some day forgotten, this play will live on down the ages as an imperishable classic of drama. This is the story of a man who takes a poor simple flower-girl and turns her into a sophisticated darling of high society. I think this story has been so popular with theatre audiences because of how its sharp wit cuts right through the artificiality of class distinctions. Shaw compels us to see beyond surfaces to recognize the human potential and worth that lies underneath.

David Rehak
author of "A Young Girl's Crimes"

A bit didactic but full of fun, gaiety, humor & Shavian wit
Published as a play in 1916, 'Pygmalion' is one of Shah's play
not heavy on philosophy. I, personally feel that his plays heavy
on philosophy are his best - 'Man and Superman', 'St.
Joan', 'Androcles and the Lion' et al. Among his plays of 'not
heavy on philosophy' genre, I rate 'Pygmalion' as one of the
best. It is full of fun, gaiety, humor, Shavian wit and is a wee
bit didactic. As Shaw wrote in the preface of 'Man and
Superman', that all good, great writing should be didactic. So,
even in the mildly didactic 'Pygmalion', Shaw had more than one
axe to grind so to say.

The central theme of Pygmalion is the gift of speech in human
beings. Shaw has tried to depict as to how a person speaks
affects their own personality and the people around. As a
corollary to this theme, Shaw hoped to popularize the science of
phonetics. In the short preface of the play, Shaw also makes a
plea for enhancement of the English alphabet (with it's too few
vowels and few consonants) to make English reading pronunciation
rational. Both his wishes of popularizing phonetics and getting
the English alphabet enlarged remain unfulfilled even today,
perhaps a measure of how much ahead of the times he was or still
is!

The locale is London's Covent Garden vegetable market. The time
is late night. It is pouring heavily, everybody is seeking the
shelter of a church's portico. Among the shelter seekers is an
impoverished, bedraggled flower girl Liza with a terrible
cockney accent. Liza is trying to peddle her flowers to the
crowd of shelter seekers. A middle- aged gentleman, professor
Higgins is taking down her speech (in Bells Visible Speech) in
his notebook. Professor Higgins is an eccentric phonetician,
expert on London accents and can place a person by their accent
to the street they originate from. One other shelter seeker is
an ex-military man, Colonel Pickering (also middle aged) with a
deep interest in phonetics. As professor Higgins Colonel
Pickering get talking, Higgins bemoans the terrible accent of
Liza (most depressing and disgusting sounds) and boasts that if
given a chance to teach and train her to speak for three months,
he could pass her off as a duchess on the basis of her fine way
of speaking! It comes about that Colonel Pickering is willing to
bear the expense of teaching Liza to speak by Higgins. The rest
of the play is about Liza 'the live doll' learning to speak like
a Duchess from two confirmed bachelors Higgins and Pickering and
whether they are able to pass her off as a duchess.

The woman protagonist character of the play Liza like all Shaw's
woman protagonist character is strong willed and assertive.
Having to endure during her learning the overbearing ways,
domineering mien, downright bullying from a socially superior
Higgins her teacher, she manages to hold her own. In the latter
stages of the play, she even manages to get the better of him
and Higgins has to tamely acknowledge that he has made a 'woman'
of her after all. (a lame defence) Although there is a romantic
angle, (Liza and Freddy) the relationship between Liza vis-à-vis
Higgins and Pickering are pivotal, focal relationships of the
play. The Liza, Freddy romance is a relegated affair. I feel
only Shaw could do this i.e. make a non-romantic relationship so
interesting over the other. But then Shaw loved debunking
popular notions. All in all a much readable play.

Pygmalion
Another treasure. I received this book in excellent condition and just as it was promised/advertised. I would definately purchase other books and merchandise through this seller and through Amazon. The combination makes buying books a real pleasure. I would and will do it again.

Great Insight
I purchased this book through a popoular book store. It was hysterical and a great remake of the original mythological story, Pygmalion. It was a great story with great choices of vocabulary. ... Read more

Book Description

In this groundbreaking book, prize-winning pianist and noted educator William Westney helps readers rediscover their own path to the natural, transcendent fulfillment of making music. Teachers, professionals and students of any instrument, as well as parents and music lovers of all ages, will benefit from his unique and inspiring philosophy, expressed with clarity and immediacy. He offers healthy alternatives for lifelong learning and suggests significant change in the way music is taught. For example, playing a wrong note can be constructive, useful, even enlightening. The energetic creator of the acclaimed Un-Master Class workshop also explores the special potential of group work, outlining the basics of his revelatory workshop that has transformed the music experience for participants the world over. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

"Juicy Mistakes"
I found Westney's book amazingly confirming. His concept of "juicy mistakes" is a brilliant suggestion to accept that you'll make mistakes -- go ahead and make them!...but learn all there is to learn from them! (advice for life, not just music) This is a book for your senses and your brain -- a must read for any music lover.

A Perfect Right Book
This fascinating book is unlike any other in the field, and is refreshingly honest and inspiring on so many levels. It questions some traditional music-teaching practices in a common-sense way that is exciting, and points out the obvious with a new perspective. At its heart, it is a philosophical and intriguing work, yet at the same time pragmatic and useful for a wide range of readers. Plus its style is witty and great fun to read!

Incredible
Westney's book is incredible. His concise, wise thoughts on music and practicing can help anyone who enjoys making music utilize their time in a practice room better. His book helps to tap into the reasons why we make music, and translate that into exciting, fulfilling musical performances.

Good intentions without really getting into it
Westney presents many insightful ideas but fails to really dive into them in the way that a musician can improve. The outline is there, but not the underlying philosophy. It is tinged with touchy-feely adjectives and feel-good stories, and you can tell he has a great grasp on human nature and performance psychology, but just doesn't articulate.
His idea of the "juicy" wrong note is a great one, but only superficially describes the concept, instead of giving a detailed description of how it could apply to practice and performance. His ideas on the student-teacher relationship are excellent, challenging the weekly lesson/performance expectations paradigm. For anyone who has confident musicality and relationship with his or her instrument, this book may be slightly motivating at best, bordering a little on unrealistic. For those who need to take the dive into their own individual musical self, it may be a great book, depending on what type of motivation appeals to you. ... Read more

Book Description

Legendary British producer and technical innovator Joe Meekthe man behind the hits "Telstar" and "Have I the Right?"has become a cult figure since his death in 1967, with fan clubs, CD collections, and retrospectives growing in popularity every day. Although much attention has been paid to his unusual life story and tragic passing, "Creative Music Production: Joe Meeks Bold Techniques" is the first book that gives the details on the methods that led to Meeks influential hits. Written by veteran music journalist Barry Cleveland, this book takes an industry perspective on Meeks life. It explores his 12-year professional career in great depth, with special attention paid to the equipment he used and the effect that his work had on the people around him. Also included is an audio CD containing Meeks "I Hear a New World" album, not available in its original form since 1961! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Great Read for Anybody Interested in Sixties Pop & Rock
I am very impressed by Barry Cleveland's book. He provides a great deal of specific information about Joe Meek's recording techniques and equipment. However, be not afraid, this is not done in a pedantic technical manner; it's very readable for the non-technical.

Being well familiar with most of Meek's recorded output, I especially enjoyed Cleveland's detailed commentaries on certain of Meek's recordings. For my taste, Cleveland could have gone on for many more pages on the same subject with different tracks.

I perceive Cleveland to be outside of the intense (mostly English) Meek cult which brings some fresh perspective on his work.

What more can I say? This was a good read that I raced through and will no doubt revisit frequently. The CD of "I Hear a New World" is a great bonus. It's surprisingly different from the RPM release. It makes me appreciate the work Roger Dopson and his associates did to bring out the RPM version.

An inspiration for all home recordists...
The British record producer Joe Meek has attained posthumous cult status and rightly so: his innovative work broke the highly conservative mould of studios where engineers sported white coats as though they were in a science laboratory and everything was done "by the book".
In Meek's case the circumstances of his life - and more to the point his death - have created a lot of urban myth. After all, Spector may have discharged revolvers at ceilings, but Meek ended his own life - and that of his landlady - with a large shotgun and all on the anniversary of Buddy Holly's death!
With those factors in mind, it's refreshing to discover a book which traces Joe Meek's life, not for the sake of cheap scandal, but through the music he made through his innovative recordings and equipment creations/modifications. Barry Cleveland has achieved the near impossible by delivering a book which is both an enjoyable work for the non-technical reader and highly satisfying for the studio "anorak" who wants to know the fine details of Meek's home studio in London's Holloway Road. Cleveland has tracked down the closest surviving sources who bring to life a picture of the cluttered apartment where Joe Meek took on the mighty forces of EMI, Decca and the like and won - for a while at least - with hits like Telstar, Johnny Remember Me and Have I The Right.
If the words are top class, the layout is every bit the match for them, with many photos I've never seen before (and believe me, I've seen a lot of Meek-related photos!) and a full discography. I can't reccomend this book enough... how about 6 stars out of 5?!

This Is A Great Book!!!
I've been waiting for a book like this one for a long time. Joe Meek made major contributions to the recording industry, and this book brings them all together into one place for the first time. There's more information here than I ever imagined could be gathered about this visionary producer and his gear and recording techniques. The included CD is also a great bonus, as it presents Meek's seminal stereo recording in its original unedited and unaltered form for the first time since the LP was "released" (there were 20 copies) in 1960. Check it out! ... Read more

Book Description

This book consists principally of graded games and exercises introducing us step by step to Commedia techniques. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great for teaching comedy
This book is wonderfully clear description of the history of commedia dell'arte, as well as the ways it can be adapted by the modern theatre artist. Includes stock character histories, mask exercises and a large assortment of comic and commedia exercises. I teach acting and am using this book in two classes. One quibble: the more precise exercises are hard to follow - but many others are not.

Playing Commedia for directors and actors
I found this book while searching for a rehearsal method to use in doing physical farce. It proved to be invaluable and inspirational to my cast. We used almost all of the exercises and out of them came some wonderfully clean comic structures and ensemble playing. I have recommended it over and over to friends and students and am now using many of the exercises in my scene study classes in an effort to expand my students physical vocabularies. Buy this book! ... Read more

Book Description

Succeeding in acting is no accident. The Twelve Step Plan to Becoming an Actor in L.A. is an innovative step-by-step plan for turning dreams into reality.

This one of a kind guidebook, written by two working actors turned casting director and drama therapist, will jump start any actor's career. Authors Dawn Lerman and Dori Keller navigate the actor month by month through a year in Los Angeles.

The Twelve Step Plan to Becoming an Actor in L.A. is supplemented with acting and self-help exercises, monthly progress pages, career/financial worksheets, journal pages, inspiring quotations, and personal stories that complement and sustain the spirit. With every step, this in-depth text imparts key lessons from professionals.

Lerman and Keller share the insider's black book of photographer referrals, classes, resume services, car rentals, insurance brokers, expert and affordable body/beauty services, and numerous other useful resources. The Twelve Step Plan to Becoming an Actor in L.A. is the new bible for aspiring actors in Los Angeles.

Reviews (43)

Courage & Hope
At first I started reading this book simply out of curiosity and perhaps even with some disbelief. I asked myself: "how could someone write a book on such a nebulous and seemingly impossibe subject"? Does this mean that if someone from Kansas, California, Florida, or New York were to read this book and follow its advice that he or she were guaranteed success as an actor? Well, I soon discovered after turning page by page that what this book does is give a young hopeful actor the COURAGE and HOPE to venture forward unafraid and take the plunge into that special world of thespians, knowing that so many of those cloudy unknown areas of the struggle to succeed have not only been identified, but have also been cleared away with the expert and practical advice of the author. While reading this very worth while book,I couldn't help making the comparison that this book is the "Dr. Spock" book for striving actors- a must read for anyone aspiring to become an actor or for anyone who has a son, daughter or special friend seeking success in that special world of drama and make believe.

A must have for any young or jaded actor
I am so glad I found this book.
It does't just give overwhelming information that makes you feel like having a professional acting career is impossible.
It empowers you.

It teaches you how to create your own projects.
Acting like any profession is a step process. I've just been to four years of acting school and taken numorous seminars, and no one before this book showed me how to get out of that catch 22 cycle.

If you want to get work, you needed to have worked. This book illustrates how to make your own work, how to network, and how and where to have a little fun in the process.

I just graduated from NYU and I feel reinspired that I can actually have a career and a little fun while I'm at it. It gives me excercises on self preservation, as well as, hot spots to go at night. It even gives practical advice on how to save on car insurance. My mom gave it to me for christmas and I highly recommend it, if your in LA or your thinking of going to LA. If you want to stay sane happy and sucessful, read this book and carry it with you. It will be your bible.I cant say enough

Dion Gold

My thoughts on the twelve step plan
I've bought several books; most of the books I've read are people who have already been there and done that, and are now helping other people who wish to travel down the same road in the film industry. I read the twelve step plan and e-mailed Dawn; she answered my e-mail within a day or so, she told me if I had any questions just e-mail her again. She is there to help, just as her book pointed out ways to get you started on the right track. After reading the twelve step plan I decided I wanted to do it right, so I enrolled at Indiana University East and picked acting as my major. For anyone looking to be an actor; the degree your looking for is Bachelor of Arts in Humanities. The Humanities degree gives you all the directing,acting and film editing skills you need to aid your quest. "College is just my first step plan, just like everything else in life, you have to be willing to go the distance, so take it seriously". "Dawn is so right, plan ahead and set your goals, then follow through with the twelve step plan".Did I mention plan ahead? Plan ahead! Way ahead! Dori also did a great job on pointing out what not to do while I was reading this book. The twelve step plan explains things in perfect detail;street names, agencies,agents,places like your nearest SAG office, the best places to eat,live and great places to meet people in the film Industry.Countless names and addresses of important places and people you need to visit on your journey. This book is a must read if your ever thinking of attempting a career as an actor; the book prevents you from making mistakes and wasting time. Personaly, here's my advice, also plan ahead what kind of day job your going to have while your going on auditions and getting started, it might as well be the film industry, so I'm taking some film editing classes. Either way I'll be working in the film industry till I get my big break as an actor. So good luck and think positive, see you in L.A.

The most awesome book i have ever read
I thought this book was very different from the other how - to books out there. It was funny and the advice was practical. A great book for students or young actors trying to come up with a life plan. AWESOME!!!!

Fantastic
This was a really great book for young actors, because it lays out the reality of an actor's life in LA. The listings of places to go to see and be seen are dead on. But what's most appealing about this book is the 'plan.' In relatively few months, I arrived in LA and soon had my life as an actor. It took a little while longer than I expected, I always want things faster, but since following the steps, I've made great contacts and auditioned for many casting agents. ... Read more

Book Description

For actors by an actor of rare subtlety and imagination; for directors by a brilliant versatile director. Richard Boleslavsky's knowledge of the theatre was based on wide experience. A member of the Moscow Art Theatre and director of its First Studio, he worked in Russia, Germany and America as actor, director and teacher. On Broadway, he produced plays and musical comedies and he was a leading Hollywood director. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Attn True Actors:Please Read This Book
Basic acting ideas and questions are explained very simply in this remarkable book. Although the technique he uses may be odd, (refering to a fictional dialogue between himself and The Creature), it enhances the reading into an art form, not just a textbook or book full of "improv" excercises. If you are a true student of the art, I think you will enjoy this book, if not at least appreciate it's value. Otherwise go back to Uta's Object Excercises!

The best volume to begin your work as an actor
Richard Boleslavsi, a key member of the Moscow Art Theatre and practioner of the Stanislvaskian "system" wrote this, a key volume that serves as the greatest starting point for any serious actor.

Writing his text in the form of a play script, Boleslavski lays out a series of easily definable and highly applicable excersises that aid tremendously towards developing the acting instrument.

Although it is impossible to learn acting from simply reading a book, if used as a complimentary text in a hands on acting class, Boleslavski's book will help one build a solid foundation upon which one can begin legitimate work in the Theatre.

However, on a strongly personally biased note, skip the second chapter, entitled "Memory of Emotion". If done improperly, this second chapter can lead to incredibly self conscious acting posing as psuedo-therepy.

The chapters of Rythym, Concentration, Dramatic Action, Characterization and Observation however prove helpful, practical and definable. Please begin with this tome.

Deceptively Simplistic
At first, I thought this book would just skim the subject. Wrong! It is the nuts & bolts of acting without which you may as well forget it! This book truly is the "bible" of acting.

An Actor's Best Buy
I just finished reading this book as a part of an acting class, and I highly recommend that anyone with an interest in acting check out this book. It's an amazing resource. Boleslavsky shares from his amazing wealth of knowledege of the stage, and it would be foolish not to take advantage of the knowledge provided here.

Within the parenthes
From memory, a long way back; fantistic approach! Fantistically simple that is! Deceptively so! Would that all info., came similarly packaged. Buy it and devour it! And yes, all is 'within the parenthes'. Wish I'd thought of it! ... Read more

Book Description

Culled from Tony Barr's 40 years' experience as a performer, director and acting teacher in Hollywood, this highly praised handbook provides readers with the practical knowledge they need when performing in front of the camera. This updated edition includes plenty of new exercises for honing on-camera skills; additional chapters on imagination and movement; and fresh material on character development, monologues, visual focus, playing comedy and working with directors. Inside tips on the studio system and acting guilds make it particularly helpful for people new to the business, and numerous anecdotes from actors such as Morgan Freeman and Anthony Hopkins and examples from current movies illustrate its many lessons. It is perfect for acting classes, workshops, all actors who work in front of the camera -- and all those who want to.

... Read more

Reviews (14)

This book helped me through my first movie!
I know Eric Kline who wrote the exercises in the back of this fine book. He and Tony have hit the real bottom line in camera acting. If you read one book on acting this must be it.

Want To Be in Pictures?
Well, got a camcorder? I'm not being funny. The Eric Kline exercises at the end of the book will teach you things, with the aid of a camcorder that no amount of talking or reading can. But first, read the book.

Economy is its keyword. Tony Barr gleans, from years of teaching since he founded The Film Actors Workshop in 1960, the most effective and easiest techniques for both the novice and the pro to truthfully "communicate ideas and emotions" through the camera.

Correctly relegating exercises to exercises rather than as a response to the director's shout for "action," Barr recounts the need for listening, sensing and learning to respond to stimuli moment to moment. He divides the book into sections. The first two, "Acting" and "Working on the Role", he tells us are enough for anyone to create a strong performance. The next, "Tools," he warns are extras, only to be approached after you have mastered the first. The last part of the book gives the never-been-on-a-set-before actor everything he/she needs for that first role, the understanding of the mechanics of movie making that directors expect from actors.

Want to be in pictures? This is a must-read for you.

A good reference
Overall, this is a good purchase. I got this a while ago because of my interest in branching out in my acting. I will admit that the first few chapters were slow, and I stopped reading for a while. However, after the first 1/4 I really got into it. There are excellent tips in there on how to go from theatre acting to film acting. There were also some good ideas on acting in general--from reacting to stimuli during a scene or dealing with unruly directors. It also had a few addresses for unions, which is always nice to have. There were also definitions of jobs related to film and the equipment used in film. The last chapter of the book is a compilation of exercises to practice in front of a camera. These are exercises that you will need about 2 or 3 other people for, and you will either have to improvise a scene, write a scene, or find a scene to perform while doing the exercises.
This is a very good book that gives you the basics. It can be used as an introduction or as a refresher, and it is generally an enjoyable read--Tony Barr writes with humor but also gets the point across. After the first few chapters, I devoured this book. This is definitely a good book to have for reference, one that I will have around for a while...

Another Must ahve for Serious actors!
My acting teacher says that, basically, their are two types of acting. Acting for the stage (theatre, plays)and acting for the camera (movies, tv). I want to do the later one, acting in movies. We do some stage excersises in class, but they dont interest me. I want to be in front of the camera so I can use some method and other technics, that my teacher says dont work in stage acting. I know i will reach my goal and get more and more film work. If you think the stage isn't for you, either, than read this book. You learn alot.

Good Tips
I thought this book was very valuable.
It had really great tips. If your into proactive books that give you hands on advivce you should also check out Twelve Step Plan To Becoming An Actor In LA. It gives not only good audition and in front of the camera tips. It teaches you how to survive emotionally and spiritually as an actor. Imperative, if your going to put yourself out there day after day.

Sylvia Lord

NYC ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A must for any wannabe or working director
I have just finished reading this hefty book and it is an awesome tool for any director, beginner or "experienced." I must admit I have done one of her directing classes and also read prior to this Judith's previous "bible #1" on acting and directing: "Directing Actors" which I also highly reccommend, so I'm somewhat biased, if you want to call it that. She is a spirited highly developed actress/ teacher of the craft of acting and directing. This book is well crafted, and written, deep and accessible, so full of amazing stuff it's a bible #2 (after her first book) to keep with you and refer back to at any time, especially if you're struggling with an actor or a scene as a director. To me she's THE authority and teacher on directing.

Must Have in Your Library
The Film Director's Intuition, Script Analysis and Rehearsal Techniques
By Judith Weston
2003 Michael Wiese Productions 364 pgs.

Together with Directing Actors (1996, Michael Wiese Productions,) Judith Weston has created a strong, comprehensive course on directing. She provides insight into the actors minds through quotes of actors. She also uses quotes from directors to provide tips for directing actors. This book is an incredible resource in developing and maintaining rapport with actors. She has incorporated and utilized the techniques and lessons of renowned acting teachers, including; Stella Adler, Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, and Constantin Stanislavsky. I have included her name alongside the aforementioned when referring directors on what to study.
The book is divided into three parts, related to the title: Intuition, Ideas, and Imagination; Script Analysis and The Lost Art of Rehearsal. It is 23 chapters long.
The baisc premise of the book is that through preparation, a director can rely on intuition during shooting and rehearsing.
A problem I had with the book was the neglect of improvisation. Although there is a chapter on improvisation, it seems as though she could've explored it more thoroughly. Improv guru Viola Spolin wasn't even mentioned, nor were any of her exercises.

An in-depth study of the professional craft of directing
Expertly written by Judith Weston (the teacher of the successful Acting for Directors workshop, which has been presented for fifteen years in the U.S., Canada, and Europe), The Film Director's Intuition: Script Analysis And Rehearsal Techniques is an in-depth study of the professional craft of directing at a deeper level than simply following the blocking. From learning to read and internalize the impulses and feelings of the actors; making the most of a director's imagination and instinct; to maximizing creativity on both sides of the camera, and so much more, The Film Director's Intuition is a truly excellent guide which is especially recommended for both the novice director as well as experienced directors seeking to advance and realize their film making, story-telling potential.

The One Book You Absolutely Need
For the professional, the amateur and the first-time director, "The Film Director's Intuition: Script Analysis and Rehearsal Rechniques", by Judith Weston, is the one single book you absolutely need. Covering virtually all you'll realize you needed to know to direct a successful film, this inventive, comprehensive volume takes the place of a library shelf of other books on the subject. In essence, this is three books in one: Intuition, script analysis and rehearsal techniques are covered in user-friendly detail. The Table of Contents alone is amazing in listing the variety of subjects the book explains. Buy and read this book before you select your next script to produce as a film!

Elizabeth English
Founder and Executive Director
Moondance International Film Festival
www.moondancefilmfestival.com

A New Approach - Fascinating
Judith Weston knows her stuff. She's been in the film and theater business for many years and brings her wealth of knowledge in a fresh, fasinating way. Directors, actors and writers will find her take new and invigorating. This book is for anyone who want a much fuller, more rounded understanding of the process of filmmaking. I learned a lot and I think others will as well. Highly recommended.

Christopher Keane ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Clear up your mistaken ideas about acting!
The Stanislavski System: The Professional Training of an Actor has been the soul of my acting teaching for 30 years. It is based on the later evolved vision of the great master teacher, as revealed to Eugene Vakhtangov and also to Sonia Moore, herself a master teacher. The approach here is clear and usable, and de-mystifies American pre-occupation with emotional substitution techniques dominant since Lee Strasberg's distortions based only upon Stanislavski's early work. This approach is accessible for young actors and is encouraging to the nurturing of their talent and development. It encourages emotional honesty without being improperly invasive, so it is good resource material for public school acting teachers and advanced students, as well as acting students from college to conservatory to proprietary school.

Time to act!
This is a great book- much more simplified than any I've seen! It concentrates a lot on physical action, a definite necessity for budding actors (or old fogies trying to get back into it!). A pleasurable read!

A good book for the method actor.
This book is made and talks about the teachings of the great Konstantin Stanislavski, a name you should know if you are an actor. It has chapters outlining the Method, and it'll help your acting abilities galore ... Read more

Book Description

An updated and expanded edition of Wilson and Goldfarb's Living Theater: A History. The authors combine an engaging narrative style with impeccable scholarship to present the history of theater from ancient Greece to Rome to the present day. Rather than resorting to dry, encyclopedic coverage, Wilson and Goldfarb demonstrate the liveliness, vitality, and distinctiveness of theater as it has unfolded through the ages. Along the way the authors emphasize the constantly changing nature of theater as well as the threads that are woven through several eras and countries. They also demonstrate that the heritage of theater can be found in the productions we see today. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An excellent resource for any person studying theater.
This is a [must have] for anyone who desires to study theater outside of high school and into college. Throughout my studies in college, I constantly referred back to this piece for references. It is an expensive book, but trust me. You will get your money's worth out of this one.

very informative
This has been the only textbook I have enjoyed in 4 years of university. Great pics. Very well done. ... Read more

Book Description

The gyp, hoodwink, shuck, sandbag: An artform that has been passed down through generations of hustlers, con men, and freaks. Selling snake oil is the ultimate con, and readers will find within these pages everything from classic deceptions to the most recent of ruses. From fooling your friends to dangerous stage stunts, Jim Rose, snake oil salesman extraordinaire, provides new angles to old tricks. Those who dare to explore these pages will find themselved enticed by this special brand of snake oil. Step right up: it's all here. There's nothing it won't cure! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Master work by the circus master
I'd have given this book five stars but for the fact the book was shorter than I'd have liked and some of the info doubles up in subsiquent chapters.However having gotten my very small beef out of the way this book is fascinating.If you ever fantisize about joining the circus or becoming a con man then you'll love this book!!!From mentalism to sword swallowing, from pimping to card sharping.More scams than you can shake a stick at. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

THE book to buy for novices & pro's
I recommend this book to anyone looking to get into this biz. Even if you are already IN this biz, you can never know too much. Susan keeps on track and winds you through the proper elements of building a career and knowing "how to" when it comes to the basics, demo tapes, agents, auditions and more. Susan & Molly also list many contacts with agencies, workshops, etc.

A must have guide to voice work!

Johnny George
VO guy

www.johnnygeorge.com

Chapter Two ALONE Is Worth 100 Times the Price of the Book
Here in Los Angeles the streets are lined with people who can "read copy," but the choice voiceover assignments go to the select few who add something more to the work - believability, personality, and a strong one-on-one connection with the audience. "A camera does not lie," say the authors, "and neither does a microphone."

That's why this book is so valuable. Although trying to teach voiceover skills through a book is inherently challenging -- sort of like trying to teach driving, or violin-playing, that way -- this book is the most successful one I am aware of. It is without doubt the best single resource on voiceover work in print today.

The key is the authors' relentless focus on the internal process of creating great readings, which they call "The Basic Process."

"Ad copy is more than just a bunch of words strung together to promote a product," they write in Chapter 2. "It is very much like a miniature play, with a beginning, a middle, and an end. One or more characters are involved, and it takes place at a particular time and place. You need to discover all those elements and more to act out the copy."

To get in touch with the reality of the copy, the authors detail their Basic Process: "Focus - Visualize - Commit." Using this process "allows you to make the copy your own little drama or comedy with its own life and vitality." Without it, "all your readings will sound alike -- and that sound will be mechanical and lacking in conviction." I don't know how anyone could lay out this crucial principle more clearly. The detailed suggestions for how to follow the Basic Process are both helpful and understandable.

The book offers a wealth of other information as well, including discussions about refining your reads, developing other voices and characters, preparing for animation work, producing a demo tape, finding an agent, handling auditions, and promoting yourself in your market. Throughout the book, voice actors, casting directors, advertising writers, and other industry experts are quoted extensively with helpful advice and entertaining war stories. Practice copy in various genres is provided. And the appendices contain numerous listings of workshops, agencies, and other resources of interest to voice talent. Every chapter offers tremendous value, all of it written with charm, elegance, and a sense of humor.

Anyone serious about a voiceover career should get this book and devour it.

A must for anyone starting (or keeping) a voice-over career!
I always recommend this book. Susan Blu has the credentials: she's an accomplished voice talent, a casting director and a voice acting teacher. Along with tips and tricks, there's a great regional listing of agencies, schools and studios with addresses and phone numbers. She knows her stuff and you'd be doing yourself a favor by following her advice in this book.

Excellent book, especially with the companion audio cassette
This is an excellent reference and manual for voice-over artists. It's a particularly good buy when combined with the companion audio casette. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

Blood Wedding
This is going to short, but I found the play below standards set by the author. There is weak imagery combined by poor, ineffective dialogue, yet there are nice character settings. There is a nice story line combining fire and passion in Leonardo's case with love for the bride, yet it is let down by the poor use of language. It is good for reading before bed, but other than that, I'd say "NO", like the "Just Say NO" drug ads.

Sex, Violence, and Horses
Lorca is often called the 20th century's greatest Spanish dramatist, and his skill with poetry in images of knives, sex, love, blood, horses and the moon illuminates this English translation. While my knowledge of Spanish is limited, the conflict of a Bride longing for but yet resisting another man who has already fathered a child by his Wife is poignantly portrayed in this version. The other man (Leonardo) rides a horse nearly to death, and rides like mad to see his about-to-be-married love beyond the peering eyes of others. His driven horse stands "down there stretched out, with his eyeballs bulging, heaving as if he'd just come back from the end of the world." The conflicts of love and the Bridegroom's Mother, who has lost her husband and her other son to violence, and the building passion, hate, love and the continual imagery of the wild horse--representing Leonardo himself?--build in poetic images and language that begins in the real and subtly transforms to surrealistic images of the moon who exposes the hidden shadows, then returns to the poetically real. In some aspects, the images of horse and rider hint at the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, but a knowledge of them is unnecessary to experience the passion of this play written by a friend of the then young Salvador Dali. The play is worth reading for its visual imagery alone, but it also encompasses a powerful story of passion, betrayal, hate, violence and love.

Chose to perform
This will be a very brief review, but basically we have chosen this book to perform for or theatre studies cat. It is a really good play, and I recomend it to anyone who likes reading plays. ... Read more

Book Description

Thirteen plays by the Oscar-winning author of Moonstruck. Includes: "The Big Funk," "Savage in Limbo," "Danny and The Deep Blue Sea," "Welcome to the Moon," "The Red Coat," "Down and Out," "Let Us Go Out Into the Starry Night," "Out West," "A Lonely Impulse of Delight," "Women of Manhattan," "The Dreamer Examines His Pillow," "Italian-American Reconciliation," and "Beggars in the House of Plenty." Also includes an introduction by the author. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Shanley goes where others fear to tread...
If you've ever been involved in a relationship that gets deep, personal and reveals a you you never knew existed...Shanley's already been there and brilliantly written about it. His ability to peer into the dark, dank depths of the human psyche and then actually write something funny about it is unparalleled. I've seen many of his plays and always left with a sore stomach from laughing so hard. I wanted to read them, too, so I could take the time to savor the deeper understandings. I'm constantly lending my copy to friends to read after they come to me in the throws of personal or relationship crisis. I'm grateful for this collection and can't wait for the next one.

Shanley's stagewriting is as incredible as his screenwriting
I found the plays in "13 by Shanley" to be as outrageous, quirky, beautiful, and redeeming as his screenwork. Shanley has the uncanny ability to make you read him twice, because one reading doesn't quite settle with you. I found myself reading a play in this collection, all the while thinking, "that's odd. I'm not too sure I care for that one. Oh, well." Then, I'd wake up the next morning, with lines from the play nagging at me. I'd go back to it and, sure enough... "it's brilliant. How did I miss that before?"

Shanley isn't everyone's cup of tea. However, if you have any kind of appreciative bone in your body for passionately quirky romances like "Moonstruck" or moodily misunderstood fairlytales like "Joe Versus The Volcano" (my personal all-time favorite)... then I STRONGLY urge you to pick up "13 by Shanley" for 13 cultured tales of love, beauty, and self-discovery.

Shanley's a genius. He's in a class by himself. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Dead Men Tell Many Tales!
OK, first of all, anyone who has anything bad to say about this book should be taught a lesson in fair criticism. This is a GREAT read! I couldn't put it down the first time I read it back around 1996, and I couldn't put it down any of the other times, either! It is simply that good! Everything in it, I believe to be true (and if it isn't, at least I am open enough to accept it as partially true, or good fun even if I know it is false), and the reasons why are simple. First, many of it's juicy tales were published before, during, and are still being revived to this day; meaning it is a consistency that proves the book to be at least partially true. Second, this is from a man who wined and dined with some of these people. Why shouldn't he have some factual tales to tell about the trashes of Tinseltown?
The entries in this sordid and scandalous soiree into Hollywood's elite past are genuinely juicy and intriguing to read. Who doesn't love to read about Hollywood sin? Included are some facts about the murder of director William Desmond Taylor, which followed closely behind the Fatty Arbuckle scandal. Also, you can learn about some suicides of silent stars when sound entered the picture, those stars (female) who died as a result of their drug addictions, and an immense amount of sex scandals, from older men and younger gals, to homosexuality. And, if that isn't enough, it is packed with many eye-opening photographs. I am telling you this is a WONDERFUL and powerfully charged book that every film buff should own. I love it so much that I would be buried with it (just as Bela Lugosi was buried with his Dracula cape, which is true)when I die! So if you are interested in classic film, or even more, in film stars of yesteryear, then this is definitely a book that you MUST read at least once (although reading it more than once is also very rewarding!). Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!

this book lies
Some of this book is interesting about early Hollywood, however a lot of it simply isn't true. The part about Clara Bow is especially mean-spirited and cruel. It is a rather well known fact that the story about Clara Bow "entertaining" the USC football team isn't true, yet, here the story is in print. I also found it uncalled for to show a photo of Judy Garland at about age 15 and then show "old Judy" and describe her as a pill popping queen... it's well known she took pills because of the studio and was given them as "medication." These are screen ledgends being trashed by some yellow journalist who writes at the quality level of The National Enquirer. Also, I don't care to read about supposed sexual escapades of male stars as great conquests and rumors about the sexuality of female stars as actions of a cheap, street corner hooker. This rag essentially says that Errol Flynn could have banged (yes, slang) anyone he wanted to, but Lillian Gish has a incestous lesbian relationship with her sister. Umm, trash, lies, and male boasting.

a book that is a fun guilty-pleasure!!!
Hollywood is a place i have always dreamed about and have NEVER wanted to visit, and this book only solidifies my conviction.
what's great about it is that all of our present day sandals-- OJ, Michael Jackson, J-Lo, the list goes on-- seem like small potatoes compared to the movers and shakers of the Golden Age of Cinema. Drug overdoeses, sex, violence, police corruption, and hintings of the underworld ran rampant and Anger's prose in the style of a tabloid is so engaging i couldn't put this book down!

and i'm not ashamed to admit that the pictures (which were helpful in stories regarding actors i had never heard of before) add to the narrative in surreal and funny ways *** check out the picture of Jayne Mansfield's dead dog at the end!

a fun and quick read for the summer!

An inside glimpse of Tinsel Town
Kenneth Anger, once a child actor himself, unvales and points both barrels at Hollywood and its subculture of excess and outrageousness. Anger tells many stories of Hollywood's greats and not so great throughout the early history of films to the more recent personalities of the golden era of movies (1920s to 1950s). The book is writen in a gossipy National Enquire tone and is entertaining. However, after reading through the book, it seems that the author has a vendetta against Hollywood and is quick to shine the spotlight to uncover the weaknesses and shortcomings of the stars. One cannot help but feel that Anger, (an interesting last name for the author), may have had his own dreams broken by Hollywood and writes to salve his own bitterness about his encounters with Tinsel Town. If not for this edge to the writing, it would have gotten a higher rating. Just the same, if you are interested in Hollywood, in all its foibles, this may be a good read for you.

The Worst Book I've Encountered In Some Time
This book is questionable as far as accuracy. For example, I have read several recent books on Judy Garland. Anger states that she committed suicide and he seems to enjoy pointing out that she looked "old..old..." and he inserts a very bad picture of Ms. Garland, then almost makes fun of her "suicide attempt" and how she appeared when she was found. He is very insensitive and trashy in his approach. He seems to list his "facts" with the glee of someone who is bitter after his own failed efforts in Hollywood. I felt embarrassed for him. I also felt that he really does not cover many personalities.
I recommend reading "Too Much Too Soon" about Diana Barrymore, which was very beautifully written and was co-authored by Gerold Frank. I also recommend Gerold Frank's book on Judy Garland. ... Read more

Book Description

An insiders look into the voice-over industry and how to break into it. Learn unique marketing strategies and voice-over techniques for the beginner and seasoned actor. Tips from some of the top casting directors in Los Angeles. Learn how to find an agent, how to audition and interpret copy. Find out what goes on in a commercial, promo, and animation recording session. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Excellent for the voice-over novice
Saulsberry is an excellent teacher and lays out step by step the actions to take to successfully get into the voice over business. He tells it like it is and at the same time is very encouraging. A must have guidebook for anybody considering entering the voice-over industry.

Buy It, Read It!
I bought this book to learn about the voice over industry, and I am very happy with the way this book is written, the amount of information it contains, the variety of information as well as the variety of sources giving the information. I like the appendix with the practice materials. You need not hesitate - buy it, and read it! Let's learn this profession!

Mr. Saulsberry Delivers the Secret Details
As a creative director and copywriter of advertising & promo spots --the very ones that voice over artists read in the studio -- I know that Mr. Saulsberry has deliverd the secret details.Often times in guide publications on "how to" start in a business --essential secrets are left out.Perhaps this allows the writer of the publication to "retain an edge" even after he's written what is supposed to be the definitive book.Mr. Saulsberry, on the other hand, has given his weatlh of knowledge openly.The end result is a book that's part business plan - part motivational tool, opening doors, not leaving out important elements --so that an individual who actually has the passion to do this absolutely, unequivicolly CAN.A great read or listen (CD) for anyone in ANY business.The marketing elements are razor sharp and can burst a myriad of different kinds of business to the next level.

Don Reed - reediculous media - creative director/senior copywriter

Make your dreams a reality!
You Can Bank On Your Voice is a book that I wish I had while a communications major in college. I would have chosen a very different career that aligns with my natural love of talking and entertaining. But better late than never right? You Can Bank On Your Voice is thorough, concise and inspiring. After reading it you will be many steps closer to making your dream of being professional voice talent a reality. It covers everything you can think of. Consider it your bible--read it often, apply what it says and you will save time, energy, effort AND have a great edge over the competion.

Success in the voice over industry awaits you. Seize this book and seize the day!

Reviewed by M. Lorraine for www.goodgirlbookclubonline.com and The GOOD GIRL Book Club

Inspirational, Informative and Easy to Read
This is why I love this book and have referred it to others, both established and aspiring voice talent:1. Quick and easy to read.2. Provides comprehensive overview of the ENTIRE gamut of voice work possibilites (there's a whole new world of opportunities out there).3. Gives you useful tips for sharpening your skills and for managing your business.4. Lists valuable resources you can access immediately.5. Mr. Saulsberry's enthusiasm and passion for his art are infectuous.I was truly inspired by his energy. ... Read more

Book Description

Whether you want to participate in ballet or just watch it, the ballet experience can excite and inspire you. Ballet is among the most beautiful forms of expression ever devised: an exquisite mix of sight and sound, stunning, aesthetics, and awesome technique.

Ballet For Dummies is for anyone who wants to enjoy all that the dance forms offers – as an onlooker who wants to get a leg up on the forms you're likely to see or as an exercise enthusiast who understands that the practice of ballet can help you gain

• More strength
• Greater flexibility
• Better body alignment
• Confidence in movement
• Comfort through stress reduction
• Infinite grace – for life

From covering the basics of classical ballet to sharing safe and sensible ways to try your hand (and toes) at moving through the actual dance steps, this expert reference shows you how to

• Build your appreciation for ballet from the ground up.
• Choose the best practice space and equipment.
• Warm up to your leap into the movements.
• Locate musical options for each exercise.
• Look for certain lifts in a stage performance.
• Tell a story with gestures.
• Picture a day in the life of a professional ballet dancer.
• Identify best-loved classic and contemporary ballets.
• Speak the language of ballet.

Today you can find a ballet company in almost every major city on earth. Many companies have their own ballet schools – some for training future professionals, and others for interested amateurs. As you fine-tune your classical ballet technique – or even if you just like to read about it – you'll become better equipped to fully appreciate the great choreography and many styles of the dance. Ballet For Dummies raises the curtain on a world of beauty, grace, poise, and possibility! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The perfect introduction I have been looking for.
This is absolutely the perfect book for someone wanting to learn (or learn about) ballet. I have seen the other ballet books out there. Most of them are either too simplistic (showing pictures of various pretty moves without telling you how to do them) or too abstract. This book strikes the ideal balance. It is practical and thorough. It doesn't assume any prior experience in ballet, but goes from square 1 to a quite advanced level. It takes you through the same logical sequence of moves that all dancers learn. It offers tons of tips and inside information that only ballet dancers know. It's very well written and easy to read. The expert authors are knowledgeable, patient, and VERY FUNNY. (A laugh on every page -- I didn't expect that added bonus.). And it has what seems like about a million beautiful photographs illustrating each move in great detail. I can't say enough great things about this book. It's the book I've been waiting for. Buy it! ... Read more