Book Description

This market-leading text is continually praised by reviewers for its clear, practical, and successful method of training students to master the skills of human communication. This introductory human communication text covers interpersonal communication, small group communication, and public speaking. With a consistent model of theoretical explanation followed by numerous practical examples, activities, sample visual scenarios and speeches, self-assessment, and review, students cannot help but to become ethical, competent communicators in our mediated world. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Dictating Sleep, Volumes and Volumes of It
Perhaps this book is considered, by some people, to be a college-level volume, but the simplification of the subject is of the most demeaning of sorts. It begins by teaching you the most basic of ideas, the communication process (entailing the meanings of words like context, participants, messages, channels, noise, feedback, and so on), drudges through some page-filler slush about why we should communicate, and finally, in chapter twelve, gets to a little something on public speaking - what I thought the book, considering its useage, was designed for.

To illustrate the simplicity of this book, the content (broke into four sections) is as follows:
(1) Foundations of Communication, the first 100 pages - including some topics like verbal and nonverbal communication, plus the perception of self and others.
(2) Interpersonal Communication, the next 110 pages - includes topics ranging from listening and job interviews to communicating in relationships.
(3) Group Communication, ranging at only 20 plus pages of content - tells you how to participate in groups and about leadership in groups.
(4) Public Speaking, the last 160 pages - finally touches on how to pick a topic, research it, adapting to an audience, and takes a lot of time differentiating between informative vs. persuasive speaking.

If you need something to teach you the ABC's of speech, perhaps you might want to look into this. Still, if you actually want to know something more than the most basic thoughts on this subject, I would advise skipping this altogether and thanking yourself for it later.

Communicate!
My review of this book is that it tries to teach you a bunch of things that are confusing and really un-meaningful when you stop to think about what they are trying to tell you. ... Read more

Book Description

The "bible" in the field of stage management, this book is a practical examination of the role of the stage manager in overall theater production. Full of practical aids such as websites and email addresses in every chapter, checklists, diagrams, glossaries, and step-by-step directions, this volume has been used and admired by students and theater professionals alike. It eschews excessive discussion about method or philosophy and, instead, gets right to the essential materials and processes of putting on a production. Perhaps most importantly, Stern has continued to keep pace with the technological and professional developments affecting the stage. For theatre professionals, or anyone with an interest instage management/ theatre management. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Good Book BUT . . .
Indeed the Lawrence Stern Book is one of many excellent books on the topic of Stage Management. Perhaps the now plethora of excellent texts comes from the intrinsic organizational skills required in the industry. At one time the LS text was the only modern text on the topic, but since there are now a number of great books, some even better, I'd urge folks to consider them. The Thomas Kelly book, for instance has a very similar organization, and seems to be somewhat more current. To me the Kelly book is a much better value.

Great Reference Material
I used this book for my stage management class. It is an excellent starter book for any stage managers library. Pick this one up.

The most easily-read and helpful text I have ever read.
Stern writes as if he were sitting around talking. The book is extremely easy to read. And the subject of stage management is so thouroughly covered that I feel confident to approach any task a director would lay before me. Appropriately nicknamed, this is the "Bible of Stage Management"!

Fabulous!
This book is completely indispensible. It helped me very much, and I recommend it to anyone involved in theatre - either onstage or backstage.

Excellent resource for anyone interested in Stage Managing
This book is the penultimate guide for stage managers. From what every stage manager should have in their box to pre-show tech checks to the obvious and sometimes not so obvious responsibilities of the stage manager, Mr Stern covers them all, and much, much more. If you're just starting out, or even if you've stage managed before - Buy this book. You won't regret it! ... Read more

Book Description

This dynamic, practical text focuses equally on the arts of interpretation and problem-solving. The author leads students through short, lucid chapters to develop an organized, step-by-step methodology from play analysis through casting, rehearsal, and performance. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Possibly the best Directing primer on the market.
Dr. Catron's book melds theory with practicality in the most utilitarian Directing primer on the market. Designed, I believe, as a college text, it has strong application at the professional and community theatre levels, better than Cohen/Harrop, John Miles-Brown and Dean & Carra. The only book which comes close to Catron's is Benedetti's The Director at Work. ... Read more

Book Description

Cirque du Soleil has become an international theatrical sensation, having thrilled the imaginations of more than 40 million people with its innovative circus experience. In 20 years, Cirque du Soleil skyrocketed from a troupe on the streets of Montreal known as "The High Heels Club" to a circus extravaganza involving 2,400 employees worldwide and some 500 artists performing in more than 130 cities around the globe in active productions that are both on tour and permanently on view in Las Vegas and Orlando.

With unprecedented access to Cirque du Soleil members in the telling of their story-including its founder, Guy Laliberté-Cirque du Soleil: 20 Years Under the Sun is the first retrospective to chart the history of this extraordinary cultural phenomenon from its humble origins to its remarkable international success. With 300-plus full-color illustrations that feature all of the company's dazzling productions-among them Saltimbanco, Mystère, Varekai, and "O"-this exceptional volume captures Cirque's magic on the printed page with the visual brio for which the company is widely renowned. The release of this book is set to coincide with Cirque du Soleil's 20th anniversary. AUTHOR BIO: Tony Babinski is a writer, filmmaker, and musician based in Montreal. From 1994 to 2000 he coproduced, cowrote, and scored a series of award-winning experimental films. Kristian Manchester, also based in Montreal, is an art director with the Diesel design firm. ... Read more

Book Description

Each edition includes:

• Freshly edited text based on the best early printed version of the play

• Full explanatory notes conveniently placed on pages facing the text of the play

• Scene-by-scene plot summaries

• A key to famous lines and phrases

• An introduction to reading Shakespeare's language

• An essay by an outstanding scholar providing a modern perspective on the play

• Illustrations from the Folger Shakespeare Library's vast holdings of rare books

Essay by Catherine Belsey

The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., is home to the world's largest collection of Shakespeare's printed works, and a magnet for Shakespeare scholars from around the globe. In addition to exhibitions open to the public throughout the year, the Folger offers a full calendar of performances and programs. ... Read more

Book Description

MI>The Enjoyment of Theatre continues to bring students the expertise of a proven author team one whose strong academic credentials combine with a wealth of theatre experience to create a book that effectively conveys the importance and excitement of theatre.Both majors and non-majors will find reading this book as enjoyable as the theatre itself. Cameron and Gillespie make theatre come alive for all readers in a comprehensive and accessible way. The new edition of this highly successful, audience-oriented book builds on the strong foundation of previous editions. By recognizing both educational and cultural diversity in the 1990's, the authors use their vast knowledge and deep understanding of theatre to span its 2500 plus-year history and to show students how theatre is and will continue to be relevant to their everyday lives. For readers with an interest in the excitement and sophistication of the theatre. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Solid Introduction to Theatre
Let's face it. Most introductory textbooks are pretty much alike: a little history, a little theory, an overview of what theatre professionals do, etc. Cameron and Gillespie give the student a leg up by writing their chapters in a user-friendly format, with chapter objectives, bulleted (main) points, and key terms at the end of the chapter, as well as web sites for further information. They also provide headings and subheadings as chapters progress, helping us digest the material in conceptual chunks rather than one long narrative. As one reviewer pointed out, there are no cuts from plays inserted, but that gives the instructor the freedom to choose his/her own plays to examine in class. Overall, I think it's an excellent introductory text. I especially like the attention to script analysis using Aristotle's Poetics.

Caution: May cause severe eye-rolling and excessive boredom
This book is meant to be informative.It is.Unfortunately, only about 15% of the book contains useful information.It actually takes the time to explain what a standing ovation is: "To show exceptional approval, audiences may stand and applaud (give a standing ovation)."It goes on to explain that if an audience finds something funny they will laugh.Imagine that.

A Solid "Introduction to Theatre" text
The story of the textbook is to give students an appreciation of theatre, to delineate theatre from other Art forms such as sculpture, dance, and painting as well as film and sporting events.The text gives a concise and accurate, although thoroughly Western, overview of theatre history with brief emphasis on African and Asian theatre.One is taken Chapter by Chapter through a discovery process from the very broad appreciation of theatre as a performing art to the very specific nuances of various Asian performance techniques.Along the way there are three units broken up into various chapters.Unit one focuses on audience relationship to the stage, the social context of theatre, textual and visual analysis a.k.a audience appreciation.Unit Two analyzes the state of theatre today and occupations in theatre.Unit Three focuses entirely on theatre history with chapters on ancient theatre, the middle ages, neoclassicism, romanticism, avant garde, eclectic and current theatre, and concludes with world theatre (mainly African, Islamic, and Asian).The book's weaknesses are its decidedly Western and Caucasian focus, very little of the text is devoted to non-white theatre and (although much improved on other texts) there are very few multi-cultural photos and illustrations included.Also, there are no plays included in the text.It is difficult to encourage script analysis if no script is included, and one page of a script with blocking scribbled all over it does not suffice.There is not much focus on design besides explaining the role of designers in the theatrical process and showing different illustrations of various historical theatre buildings or areas.Lastly, not knowing how to eloquently state this, there is something disturbing about siphoning Chekhov, Ibsen, the Federal Theatre Project, Kathakali, avant garde, Ira Aldridge etc. to two paragraphs or less.By trying to include so many various historical topics in one relatively small text, the authors have sold many of them short. Overall, If used in combination with lectures or texts on design, live performance, and a collection of world drama or scripts this is a solid and very useful text. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Great Book!!!
My book is all dirty, and worn since its always around im my studio as I go about doing my molds and casts.
I used it all the time. Now not so much since I have memorized almost everything.
A must for anyone that want a book that is really practical with accurate information.

Have a look
This book was an interesting read. They do show a wide variety of techniques that are used for the stage...but they only give you a small taste of the process...The vacuum forming section is good. Read this book to get an overview of some ideas... but know that most of the technology shown is past its prime. I know stagework is seen at a distance... but you will not be impressed with the craftsmanship of the projects. Heads up on some safety issues...they skip right over that. Oh my.

good resource
I purchased this book as a sculptor....and thought it might be too focused on theatrical uses. I was pleasantly surprised to find that not only did it apply to the art sculptor but that it was more descriptive than any sculpture books on the same processes. The photos and directions are very clear and informative. The author gives a list of sources for ordering materials and supplies( though there are now many more sources available since this was published).

The beginner's book of molding and casting
What do you want to know about molding and casting? It is probably in this book. How to work with Plaster, how to work with urethanes and resins. All about mold making, all about casting materials. From the simplest to the most complex. The book even explains how to do vacuum molding. I've just begun to do molding and casting and so far everything I've needed to know came right out of this book. And it is a lot of fun, too.

An outstanding book on the subject.
Covers many different types of molding/casting materials and release agents depending on the job at hand. Good photographs that illustrate the step-by-step process. Has important detailed sections on safety and how to handle various chemicals. The author also includes a section on how to build a vacuum-form machine and a selection of vendors to contact to order materials discussed in the book. ... Read more

Book Description

This text presents drawing instruction with detailed break downs of various types of characters. Maternal? Elderly? Sassy? Sexy? It all starts with body proportion, bone structure, body masses, the facial expressions, the hands, and the feet. Hats, props, fabrics, and choice of medium are all thoroughly covered to ensure your ability to develop convincing life-like characters.

* Includes unique three-step drawing guides that develop the sketch from stick figure to full-blown character
* Detailed examples of how to draw faces, hands, and feet
* Learn to draw realistic fabrics in a multitude of colors and textures ... Read more

Product Description

Nominated for a whopping 10 Tony Awards and grossing more than $1 million each week, Wicked is this year's Broadway smash! A prequel to the all-American classic The Wizard of Oz, this new musical is a character study of Elphaba and Glinda, school roommates who grow up to become the Wicked Witch and the Good Witch, respectively. Feature a special section of color photos from the production, a note from composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz, and these fantastic tunes: As Long as You're Mine ? Dancing Through Life ? Defying Gravity ? For Good ? I Couldn't Be Happier ? I'm Not That Girl ? No Good Deed ? No One Mourns the Wicked ? One Short Day ? Popular ? What Is This Feeling? ? The Wizard and I ? Wonderful. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great score, arrangements! (melody in the piano part)
After waiting for so long to finally get this book, I've discovered it to be well worth the wait.

Stephen Schwartz is releasing two versions of vocal selections for wicked, this version containing the melody interpolated into the piano part, and another book that is billed as a professional acompaniment without the melody necessarily built into the piano arrangement. This led many to speculate that the "with melody" version would therefore be much easier and less true to the music. Although I haven't seen the other book yet as it has yet to be released as I write this, you should definitely know that this book has not one "easy" arrangement. The arrangers have done a really excellent job of keeping the parts interesting while building in the melody. For instance, "Defying Gravity," the amazing Act-One closing number, is particularly well done, and if you can work through the key-- (it remains, as in the show, in Db) you will be VERY satisfied with the richness and fullness of the sound.

Schwartz has adapted the songs for use as solos or (where applicable) duets, removing longer instrumental breaks, trimming ensemble sections, and providing some new lyrics and endings to make the songs work really well for this new format. This in my opinion is yet another reason to purchase the book, as it gives fans of the show a way to interpret small sections of some of the songs differently.

Sometimes I do wish some cuts could have been avoided (notably I miss the wonderful "We deserve each other" theme that appears on the cast album intersecting "Dancing through Life" and the counterpoint melody "Who's that mage..." in "One Short Day"), but Schwartz is right, it would have impeded the creation of solo pieces to put those in.

The score for Wicked is definitely not to be missed, it really is a must have-- (especially while I wait patiently for the imminent release of the other version of the score!)

Overall, the music is wonderful, the arrangements remain challenging, but are extremely well edited and contain chord diagrams to help you along as well. Well done. ... Read more

Book Description

Groundbreaking and critically acclaimed from the first edition, PUBLIC SPEAKING: CONCEPTS AND SKILLS FOR A DIVERSE SOCIETY, Fourth Edition continues to train students to be effective speakers and listeners in the context of our multicultural society. Jaffe explores the intertwining nature of diversity and public speakingwith expanded coverage of basic public speaking skills, rhetorical foundations and technology. Topics covered include technology, making an electronic culture, the canons of rhetoric diverse listening styles, civility and speechmaking, the culture of narrative and non-traditional speech organization patterns such as the wave and the exemplum. With a keen sense of what students need to excel, Jaffe infuses each chapter with the concepts, skills, theories, applications, and critical thinking proficiencies essential for success in today's diverse world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Public Speaking, A culteral Perpecstive by Clella Jaffe
The book is great! After reading this book, I feel that I am able to: 1.Have a broader and deeper understanding of myself and of others. 2. Have a thorough theoretical and working knowledge of the various concepts of public speaking. 3. Listen actively and speak with a greater feel for me and for my audience. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Most people know the work of theater director Julie Taymor, if they know it at all, from her hit adaptation of Walt Disney's The Lion King for the Broadway stage. But this gorgeous book, a pictorial history of the artist's career, demonstrates that for the past 25 years Taymor has been creating original works of theater that combine a stunning visual sense with an extensive knowledge of the performance styles of many countries outside the West. Theater critic and scholar Eileen Blumenthal has followed the work of Taymor almost since its very beginnings, and her lengthy critical assessment of this inspired artist's work combines interviews with the director with a cogent analysis of her intellectual development and cultural sources.

From her days as a teenager studying the people and theater of Bali to her travels in Japan, Europe, and then back to New York, Taymor has reveled in the cross-fertilization of different images and ideas from a wide variety of countries. Her critically lauded piece The Transposed Heads, for example, was adapted from a Thomas Mann novella that was itself based on an ancient Indian folktale. Unlike most directors, Taymor came from the world of the designer, and it was her exquisite work creating costumes, masks, and puppets that first launched her into work in the theater. But gradually she gained the respect of actors as well, and now is regarded as a director of uncommon sensitivity, who can pull performances from a cast that match in intensity her phenomenal visual eye.

Lavishly illustrated with color and black and white photographs, this is a fitting tribute to a woman who, still in her 40s, is nothing short of a theatrical prodigy. As Taymor moves further into the world of commercial theater and film (her upcoming cinematic production of Titus, starring Anthony Hopkins and Jessica Lange and adapted from her own stage production of Titus Andronicus, opens soon), more audiences than ever will be treated to her extraordinary work. --John Longenbaugh ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Rare Book for a Rare Artist
I bought this book after looking at a friend's copy, and I can say that this was one of the finest investments in my Theatre Arts library that I have ever made. This book is filled with brilliant pictures and vivid writing that will keep many in awe and almost child-like wonder at the genious of Ms. Taymore. This isn't just a book for those that appreciate theatre - I suggest it for anyone who is interested in puppetry or film, not to mention anyone who can appreciate art in general.

Playing With Fire proves Julie Taymor's extreme brilliance!
I have been in love with theatre for a long time. Many musicals I see and enjoy, buy the CD and just listen to that. Others blow me away. Those that have that capacity I tend to investigate and become obsessed with. The Lion King was one of them. I soon became fascinated and extremely appreciative of Julie Taymor's work and pure brilliance in musical theatre, opera, and film. This book highlights every show that Julie has been involved with for her 20 years in the performing arts business. This wonderful book illustrates what true theatre is! Julie is too amazing for any human language too describe; even emotion can't portray my love and idolism for this excruciatingly wonderful woman! Anybody who loves theatre, whether it is film, opera, musical or non-musical, you will be able to love and appreciate this book for all eternity.

I love this book so much that I would dare to give it infinite stars. Now imagine this, if there were such a number, I'd give the music from these shows infinitely infinite stars!

Now, more to the book. It starts out with a quick overview of her work. Then we get into the real meat. There are pictures (both of the show and backstage!) from each and every single of her shows. Included are some original sketches of costumes, masks, and puppets. Along with the pictures are writings by both Julie Taymor and Eileen Blumenthal. This is an extravagant work of art in itself that all should have their eyes glued onto...buy it now! Also buy everything you can find that relates to Ms. Taymor. You will be fascinated! The only regret I now have is that I didn't live in Europe and Asia to see her other fascinating shows...

Hail Taymor! I will look forward to all of your work in the future!

Lastly, if anyone finds the film Fool's Fire (by Taymor), PLEASE! E-mail me at Cepheus9@aol.com...I want to buy it SO badly!

Playing with fire -- Playing with imagination
A facinating insight into the mind of one of the great contempary designers. A must have for all theatrically minded people. The book takes you through the creative process to achieving such powerful and passionfilled productions such as The Lion King. Disney would have flopped without Julie Taymor. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In her introduction to Respect for Acting, actress and teacher Uta Hagen talks about a time when she herself had no respect for the art of acting. "I used to accept opinions such as: 'You're just born to be an actor'; 'Actors don't really know what they're doing on stage'; 'Acting is just instinct--it can't be taught.'" But this attitude of "you got it or you don't" is fundamentally one that denigrates the craft, as she points out. Great actors do not perform effortlessly, or merely through learning the appropriate tricks and cheats to manipulate an audience. Great acting is about the difficult fusion of intellect and action--about sincerely and truthfully connecting to the moment, your fellow actors, and the audience--and Hagen's thoughtful and profound book contains a series of observations and exercises to help an actor do just that. Her prose style is admirably clear and filled with examples from her own lengthy career both as a performer and in the classroom. While her exercises in sense memory and basic objects skirt close to the sort of self-absorption that followers of "the Method" are routinely accused of, they are presented clearly and with a focus on practical results. And in such places as her chapter "Practical Problems," which includes discussions of stage nerves and how to stay fresh in a long run, her straightforward advice is invaluable. --John Longenbaugh ... Read more

Reviews (16)

A BLUEPRINT FOR ACTORS
I have had the great pleasure and privilege of seeing Uta Hagen perform in plays by Edward Albee, Donald Margulies and George Bernard Shaw. She is surely one of the finest actors of our time. I have also had the great pleasure and privilege of studying for four years with Uta in the school she helped create with her late husband, Herbert Berghof (the famous HB Studio in New York City). I can assure you that she is one of the finest teachers of our time. It is a very rare actor who can actually communicate as a fine teacher. Uta is one of those very few who do just that.

In this, her first book, she lays out a "blueprint" for actors which, as surely as a blueprint by an architect, can be followed by those actors who are novices or those who have great experience. No, she cannot give you talent, but she can (and does) show you the how and why to use your talent to serve the playwright.

She believes in acting as an Art and this "how-to book" is invested with the love and respect of its title. It can be read and enjoyed and actually used by actors. It can also be read and enjoyed and relished by lovers of fine theatre who do not happen to be actors. It would make a terrific gift for any young actor along with the only books I would rate as its equal: Constantin Stanislavski's "An Actor Prepares" and his "Building A Character." It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Excellent! Better than "An Actor Prepares"
I found that Uta Hagen's personal experiences from the time she began in her profession to where she is at when writing the book were some of the most helpful parts of this book. Also, the bit on Scoring the Role has helped me with many plays and characters that I have done up to this point. An absolute must for any person serious about Acting!

Not For Those Just Browsing
This is a deep, detailed work about the craft of acting. It is definately not for those just dabbling, as it will seem boring at best. But for those truly devoted to learning the craft, this is indespensible.

Excellent
First of all, I would like to let you know in advance that I'm not really a book person. I'll clarify and respond the best of my abilities. When I first read Respect for Acting, I was amazed at the authority with which Ms. Hagen wrote her book. The more I read, though, the more I began to understand this authority. Incorporating basic acting concepts, individual "object exercises," and methods for working on a character in a play. I particularly enjoyed the specificity of the writing, and the means by which Ms. Hagen explained every statement she made. I think this novel is a brilliant piece of work.

Uta Hagen has an excellent writing method, and "Respect for Acting" is understandable and effortless to read. She has many amazing ideas. In her introduction to "Respect for Acting", actress and teacher Uta Hagen talks about a time when she herself had no respect for the art of acting. I learned that great actors do not perform naturally, or merely through learning the appropriate tricks and cheats to influence an audience. Great acting is about the difficult mixture of intellect and action about sincerely and truthfully connecting to the moment, you're fellow actors, and the audience and Hagen's thoughtful and reflective book contains a sequence of observations and exercises to help an actor do just that.

Her writing style is very clear and filled with examples from her own lengthy profession both as a performer and in the classroom. While her exercises in sense memory and basic objects skirt close to the sort of self-absorption that followers of "the Method" are routinely accused of, they are presented clearly and with a focus on practical results. And in such places as her chapter "Practical Problems," which includes deliberations of stage nervous tension and how to stay fresh in a long run, her straightforward advice is invaluable.

Boring, but necessary.
I found this book next to impossible to get through when I had to read it for my theatre class. Unless you're good at holding one idea while reading another (because you have to remember what maxim applies to what situation as you read), the sage advice of Uta is almost unbearable to wade through. Almost my entire class agreed that she talked about herself for an inordinate amount of this piece. However, her advice is very wise, and if you can manage to figure it out and ignore the stuff that you might not need to know- such as experiences with two different ladies and their ways of handling some role- you will find yourself a better actor for the trouble. ... Read more

Book Description

Folger Shakespeare Library

The world's leading center for Shakespeare studies

Each edition includes:

• Freshly edited text based on the best early printed version of the play

• Full explanatory notes conveniently placed on pages facing the text of the play

• Scene-by-scene plot summaries

• A key to famous lines and phrases

• An introduction to reading Shakespeare's language

• An essay by an outstanding scholar providing a modern perspective on the play

• Illustrations from the Folger Shakespeare Library's vast holdings of rare books

Essay by Susan Snyder

The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., is home to the world's largest collection of Shakespeare's printed works, and a magnet for Shakespeare scholars from around the globe. In addition to exhibitions open to the public throughout the year, the Folger offers a full calendar of performances and programs. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Review of William Shakespeare's "Othello" by Terry Hoge
What is more inticing than a story involving war-like patrons and scandal? This book has been absolutely entertaining and suspensful to read. It was stunning how many false stories, insinuations, and accussations the character "Iago" had set up from the beginning to the end. There were also so many other character types such as the pawn-like Roderigo, the seemingly calm yet furiously jealous Othello, the bleeding-heart of Desdemona, the honorable Cassio, and more! It was amazing how Iago had actually set up his false stories from the very beginning of the novel where he first employes Roderigo as his foolish pawn. The only factor of this book that was somewhat unsettling was how easily swayed Othello had gotten from Iago's insinuations. To a certain point, it almost seemed unrealistic. For example, towards the end of the play, when Iago retrieves the seemingly precious and invaluable handkercheif and uses it to make it seem that Cassio had recently been with Desdemona, that seems to be a little bit illogical. Just because Othello finds that Cassion has been holding the precious handkercheif doesn't abosuletly mean the Desdemona has been unfaithful. However, some could argue that the heavy pile of insinuations and false stories/accusations that Iago has placed on Othello could be seen as reason enough for Othello's furious rage and jealous behavior. All in all, though, this book has been quite pleasing. The amount of scandal (scandal as in the falsness of Iago) has been enough to please anyone looking for a suspensful tragedy to read. ... Read more

Book Description

*HA09 Interviewing: Art and Skill, Jeanne Tessier Barone(Indiana University-Purdue University), Jo Young Switzer (Manchester College), H4088-4, 368 pp., 7 x 9 1/4, 0-205-14088-2, paperbound, 1995, $23.25nk, December*/ INTERVIEWING: Art and Skill is the only book for the basic course in Interviewing to systematically incorporate multicultural and global issues. This focus on diversity extends to interviewing across the communication spectrum in gender and culture-neutral language. Federal legislation affecting interviewing in the workplace and ethical issues affecting the interviewer are thoroughly discussed. ... Read more

Book Description

A comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to the analysis of public rhetoric, this book illustrates for readers how to examine and interpret rhetorical situations, ideas, arguments, structure, and style. The book covers a wide range of critical techniques, from cultural and dramatistic analysis to feminist and Marxist approaches. A wealth of original criticism demonstrates how to analyze such diverse forms as junk mail, congressional debates, and traffic regulations, as well as literature. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Utterly modern!
It's a hip and modern book. It's great for undergraduate and graduate students unfamiliar with rhetoric criticism. Rhetoric criticism made easy written in a simple, straightforward, and occasionally humorous style. This is the only book I actually anticipate reading for my rhetoric class. This book gives its readers working vocabulary with which they use to analyze rhetoric of a text. As well, it supplies easy-to-understand guide to critiquing. The chapters in the book consist of three units: Introduction to Criticism, General Forms of Criticism, and Specialized Form of Criticism. Within these units, the book has separate chapters on analyzing ideas, situations, word choices, media, and more. As well, separate chapters consist of drama, role, cultural, and feminist criticism. ... Read more

Book Description

This important new introductory textbook by a prime mover in the emergent field of Performance Studies is a defining moment for the discipline. It provides a lively and accessible overview of the full range of performance for undergraduates at all levels and beginning graduate students in performance studies, theatre, performing arts and cultural studies. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Where Theatre Studies Needs to Go
This long awaited book by Richard Schechner breaks the traditional boundaries of how theatre is to be studied. He assures us through numerous examples, comments, quotations, and theories how interrelated theatre is with life and life with theatre. To see performance as a part of life and as an extension of it is to see performance with a clarity that has never before been discussed in such depth.

By the end of the book, which is probably more useful as a reference than even as a textbook that students read chapter by chapter (though it does offer great possibilities for creatively integrating in the classroom as it was intended), one has more questions than answers, and that is a good thing, because the questions become more focused and more relevant and more conducive to individual introspection. As a college professor in Theatre, I find that refreshing and valuable.

This is a seminal work, and should certainly be on every theatre practitioner's bookshelf, if not in their hands.

The book contains nudity and language in the examples of performance he gives, so is not suitable for children. ... Read more

Book Description

The first multi-volume history of the American theater to have been published, The Cambridge History of American Theatre is an authoritative and wide-ranging history of American theater in all its dimensions. It recognizes changing styles of presentation and performance, and addresses the economic context that conditions the drama presented. Volume One brings together the work of ten major authorities on American theater and drama. Like each of the three volumes, Volume One includes an extensive overview and timeline followed by chapters on specific aspects of American theater up to c. 1870. ... Read more

Book Description

Popular cult author and show business insider James Parish exposes the scandals that rocked Tinseltown

Nothing intrigues the public more than a good, juicy scandal. Add a famous Hollywood star or two to the mix and the nation is hooked. The Hollywood Book of Scandals provides the full account of 32 big, provocative scandals—complete with all the sexy, scintillating, and often shocking details. Written by veteran show business chronicler James Robert Parish, this book dishes the full dirt on:

• Bob Crane’s mysterious death
• Elizabeth Taylor’s seduction of Eddie Fisher
• Robert Mitchum’s arrest for drug possession
• Judy Garland’s public meltdown
• Errol Flynn’s trial for statutory rape
• Winona Ryder’s shoplifting trial

More than 100 black-and-white celebrity photos offer readers a close-up look at the leading players in these sordid dramas.

Reviews (17)

A Good Time Had By All?
James Robert Parish, Hollywood historian extraordinaire, smartly tackles the biggest and best Hollywood scandals of the last century. From the sexual ignominies of Valentino and Fatty Arbuckle to the outrageous O.J. and Robert Blake murder cases, Parish shines an accurate journalistic light on the follies and foibles of those we call Stars. If you want the real lowdown on Liz and Dick, the SNL cast, Woody Allen, Marilyn, Natalie Wood, Winona Ryder, Heidi Fleiss and many many more, throw away the tabloids and pick up this book - it's the most fun Hollywood read this year!

Sensational stories -- without sensationalism
James Robert Parish comes up with another tome about Hollywood. Once again, Parish offers dishy stories within a framework of intelligent prose, careful historical analysis, and a keen eye for human behavior. There's something for everyone in "The Hollywood Book of Scandals." The book covers dozens of cases, from the more obscure (comedienne Thelma Todd's mysterious death in the early 1930s) to the fresh-from-the-presses tales involving Robert Blake and Winona Ryder. Among the other stars found in Parish's latest are Errol Flynn, Ingrid Bergman, Liberace, and Woody Allen. "The Hollywood Book of Scandals" is a must for film lovers. Gossipy? Sure. Informative and engrossing? Definitely. And as plus, there's always Parish's straightforward and insightful style.

Movie Lore Scandals
James Robert Parish has written a concise, thorough and well
researched volume on over 100 scandals which have plagued
Hollywood from its infancy to the present. Included are such
personalities as William Desmond Taylor (whose murder is still
unsolved), Wallace Reid, Jean Harlow and Paul Bern, Elizabeth
Taylor, Judy Garland, Errol Flynn and O.J. Simpson. The nice
thing about this well illustrated book is that the author presents the facts and then leaves it up to the reader to decide

innocence or guilt. Very readable and highly recommnended for
for lovers of scandal and movie lore.

Parish Does It Again
Jim Parish is one of the most prolific writers about Hollywood on the scene. There's a reason for that: he has a wealth of information. He leaves no stone unturned in his search to bring his readers absolutely the most honest version of Hollywood's most infamous events...events which shaped our culture. In this book, Parish has done it again, bringing new information where you would have thought the well was dry years ago. The guy is incredible.

A Real Page-Turner
This well-researched book of Hollywood scandals is a real page-turner. Entertaining, wittily-written, and informative, it provides all of the juicy details of scandals covering the whole history of Hollywood, from the silent days to the present. Touches on many well-known scandals, but the reader will also be surprised by some previously unknown (at least to me) stories of Hollywood misbehavior. The book deals not just with scandal, but also with numerous tragedies (Judy Garland, for example). Some of the stories are funny, others sad -- and I found myself at the end of the book wishing for more. This is a terrific Hollywood book! ... Read more

Book Description

This is the second volume of Stanislaviski's enduring trilogy on the art of acting. The "System" which he describes is a means both of mastering the craft of acting and of stimulating the actor's individual creativeness and imagination. It has become the central force determining almost every performance we see on stage or screen, and still remains today the only comprehensive theory of acting we possess.

In Building a Character Stanislavski discusses with mastery and insight the actor's physical means of expression for realizing character on stage, such as the use of body, movement, voice, tempo, expression, make-up and costume. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great Info
Wordy with almost painful detail. But a true must-have for those aspiring to acting.

This is the Actor's Bible
This book is acting in biblical proportions and is a must for all serious actors!

twisted
through reading the work of a artist such as stan i have been able to improve my acting career to such an extent

A Foundation of knowledge for the actor
Stanislavki is considered a master of theatre and often called the "father of the method." In this, the second installment of his acting technique books(very wittingly alphabetically titled An actor prepares, Building a Character, Creating a role) he goes into the external technique an actor must use to become a character.

Like an Actor Prepares, he uses fictional characters obviously based on the actors from the Moscow Art Theatre, with the director, Tortsov (think Stanislavski) being the one with all the knowledge. While a lot is to be learned from the book, one can't help but notice how egotistically the book is written. While there is no denoting how wonderfully he lays out the principles taken in building a character, I wonder how much easier of a read it would be if he just came out and said, these are our principles. Instead he cloaks himself behind a character and we lose a lot trying to muddle through a student's undying love (Kostya, who's "journals" make up the text) for his teacher. If you can get past the text, you'll learn a lot. ... Read more

Book Description

The Eighth Edition of THE ESSENTIAL THEATRE will help you get your students excited about theatre. The combined authorship of an authoritative theatre historian and his former student, an active theatre historian himself, make this the book perfect for your introductory theatre course. In the 35 years since it was first published, THE ESSENTIAL THEATRE has established a reputation as one of the most comprehensive, authoritative surveys of the theatre in academia. Now in a new full color format with many representations of current and classic performances, this text will encourage your students to become active theatergoers and fans. THE ESSENTIAL THEATRE works in tandem with its companion anthology, PLAYS FOR THEATRE. The scripts in PLAYS serve as a foundation for discussion of the various types of theatrical experience explored in the text. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

What's to review?
If you have a Theater degree from any American college in the last decade, then you already own this book. This is the definitive text on Theater History. Brockett is the authority. No other comprehensive book on "general" theater history comes close. If you want the book that is on every theater historian's shelf, referenced in every Theater thesis or dissertation, and the text for every Theater History course in the nation, then order this. ... Read more