Acting: The Basics

by Bella Merlin

Overview

Now in a vibrantly revised second editon, Acting: The Basics remains a practical and theoretical guide to the world of the professional actor, which skilfully combines ideas from a range of practitioners and linking the academy to the industry. Retaining a balance between acting history, a discussion of pioneers and a consideration of the practicalities of acting techniques, the new edition includes a discussion of acting for the screen as well as the practicalities of stage acting, including training, auditioning and rehearsing. With a glossary of terms and useful website suggestions, this is the ideal introduction for anyone wanting to learn more about the practice and history of acting.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781138820418
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	10/09/2017
Series:	The Basics
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	216
Product dimensions:	5.06(w) x 7.81(h) x (d)

About the Author

Bella Merlin is Professor of Acting and Directing at the University of California, Davis, Riverside, as well as an actor and trainer.

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction

1. A Brief History of Acting

2. ‘I Can Do That’: Actor-Training. 3.

3. ‘You Got the Part!: Auditions.

4. ‘Building a Character’: Rehearsal Processes.

5. ‘Another Opening, Another Show!’: Performance Practices.

6. ‘Passing the Baton’: Eleven Executors of Acting.

Glossary of Terms

Bibliography

Index.

Editorial Reviews

After searching for an inclusive text for my undergraduate acting students that incorporates consent with anticolonial and anti-racist lenses and practices, I had given up and gone without. I was starting to consider writing one myself, when I read Bella Merlin’s new edition of Acting: The Basics. It outlines a clear and concise Stanislavsky-based methodology to explore (without dogmatizing it!) and a situated, relevant history of the field. Importantly, it also expands to other theatrical traditions both in training and as examples throughout. I immediately revamped my Intermediate Acting syllabus to incorporate the text and am thrilled with the deep class discussions it has already sparked. Merlin’s conversational tone and logical framing also make it a hit with my students - a win all the way around!”

Joelle Ré Arp-Dunham, Teaching Assistant Professor, School of Music, Theatre and Dance, Kansas State University

From the Publisher