Today, I’m going to share with you some of the books which have influenced me as both an actor and a voice & acting coach.
I believe every actor has their own method and way of working, no two performers process will be the same to prepare them for their work. These 5 books have helped shaped my process and the way I work, I hope they help you too!
No. 1 - Respect for Acting by Uta Hagen
Hands down my favourite book on acting, it not only instructs you with practical exercises but it also gives you a deeper understanding of acting as a craft.
Grab your copy here: https://amzn.to/3W7b2oQ
Best for: Theatre Actors
No. 2 - An Actor Prepares by Constantin Stanislavski
Whether you’re just starting out or are a professional actively working in the industry, this a must read for every actor. This is a very intense read and I suggest making notes as you go every time a new tool is introduced to you. This will help you have a personalised understanding of this book by the time you finish it.
You can find it here: https://amzn.to/42BU5oU
Best for: All Actors!
No.3 - Sandford Miesner on Acting
During the course of this book you will follow fifteen months of Sanford Meisner’s acting classes. He begins with the most basic exercises and ends with complete, in-depth and well thought out scenes from his class.
Although this is not a step by step practical guide, you can take the exercises discussed and apply them to your own work.
Find the book here: https://amzn.to/3pypEkP
Best for: Screen Actors
No.4 - The Complete Stanislavsky Toolkit by Bella Merlin
This is a practical guide into using Stanislavski’s techniques. If you already have a good understanding of the foundation of Stanislavski’s work, then this will be the best next step for you to practically apply the techniques discussed in ‘An Actor Prepares’.
Grab your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Igxbv7
Best for:
Theatre & Screen Actors with an established understanding of Stanislvaski’s work.
No.5 - Stella Adler: The Art of Acting
Although not a household name, Stella Adler worked with some of the most famous actors of our time such as Marlon Brando & Robert De Niro. This book gives you 22 lessons to apply to your work as an actor.
Find your copy here: https://amzn.to/3W5UCwO
Best for:
Everyone - even if you’re not an actor, this book has a self-help element to it that can help inspire and guide you in everyday moments.
Thanks for reading this weeks blog, catch you next week!
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