Best Books on Acting

Best Books on Acting

Learn the craft of acting from one of the greatest teachers of our time in this captivating book. Follow an acting class of eight men and eight women as they go from basic exercises to polished performances of contemporary American plays. Meisner's empathic and encouraging teaching style provokes emotion, laughter, and technical mastery from his students. With an introduction by Sydney Pollack, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in acting or appreciating the craft.

Featured in 23 articles backstage.com myactorguide.com Recommended by Constantin Stanislavski - 1989-04-28 ( first published in 1936 ) Goodreads Rating

Discover the famous acting training book that has inspired generations of actors and trainers. This edition was the first to introduce Stanislavski's 'system' to English speakers and continues to be a classic in acting classes. Learn about inward preparation, the 'magic if' concept, emotion memory, and rehearsal aids. An essential read for actors, directors, and anyone interested in the art of drama.

Featured in 21 articles actinginlondon.co.uk backstage.com Recommended by Everything an Actor Needs to Know to Get the Part Michael Shurtleff - 1980-01-02 ( first published in 1978 ) Goodreads Rating

Find your dream role with Audition by Michael Shurtleff! Learn the secrets of successful casting from the director of Chicago, Pippin, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Discover how to create mystery, use humor, and develop a distinct style that will land you the part you want. Audition isn't just for actors though - it's a necessary guide for dealing with all the "auditions" we face in life. Don't miss out on the bible of auditioning!

Featured in 17 articles backstage.com myactorguide.com Uta Hagen - 1973-09-01 Goodreads Rating

This detailed book on acting serves as a credo for one of the industry's experienced professionals. Respect for Acting offers invaluable advice for both aspiring and seasoned actors, containing vivid dicta drawn from experience, skill, and a sense of personal and professional worth. With her significant imagination, Uta Hagen's object exercises can stimulate anyone preparing a scene for presentation. No wonder almost no American actors are uninfluenced by Hagen's teachings.

Featured in 15 articles backstage.com Recommended by Stella Adler - 2000-11-01 Goodreads Rating

Explore the teachings of one of the most influential acting teachers in American history through this book of 22 lessons. Stella Adler, known for instructing iconic actors like Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro, imparted her vast knowledge of the craft over a long and illustrious career. Howard Kissel has captured her decades of experience and expertise in this essential volume on The Art of Acting.

Featured in 13 articles stagemilk.com actinginlondon.co.uk Recommended by Achieving Your True Potential as an Actor Larry Moss - 2005-12-27 ( first published in 2004 ) Goodreads Rating

Learn from legendary acting coach Larry Moss's thirty years of experience with his book, The Intent to Live. Moss shares his techniques to help actors set their emotions, imagination, and behavior on fire, giving performances that are authentic and spontaneous. From script analysis to physicalization and sensory work, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to master the craft of acting. With insights, case studies, exercises, and examples from a wealth of plays and films, The Intent to Live is not just a handbook, but a personal credo of a master teacher.

Featured in 12 articles myactorguide.com stagemilk.com

The Chubbuck Technique -- The 12-Step Acting Technique That Will Take You from Script to a Living, Breathing, Dynamic Character

Ivana Chubbuck - 2005-08-18 ( first published in 2004 ) Goodreads Rating

Discover the secrets of masterful acting with a leading Hollywood coach in The Power of the Actor. With over 20 years of experience, Ivana Chubbuck has trained some of the biggest names in the industry. Learn step-by-step techniques and exercises to unlock your own potential and create unforgettable performances. Perfect for actors, directors, and anyone looking to improve their communication and creativity skills. Don't miss out on this essential guide to becoming a powerhouse actor.