Acting: The Basics

Acting: The Basics is a practical and theoretical guide to the world of the professional actor, skilfully combining ideas from a range of practitioners and linking the academy to the industry. It covers key areas such as:


the development of modern drama and acting processes over the years


the approach and legacy of acting pioneers and practitioners from around the world


acting techniques and practicalities, including training, auditioning, rehearsing and performing – both for stage and camera

Complete with a glossary of terms and useful website suggestions, this is the ideal introduction for anyone wanting to learn more about the practice of acting and the people who have advanced its evolution.

Bella Merlin is Professor of Acting at the University of California, Davis, as well as an actor and trainer. She and has written a number of books on Stanislavsky.

Preface. Abbreviations. Introduction. Chapter 1: A Brief History of Acting. Chapter 2: ‘I Can Do That’: Actor-Training. Chapter 3: ‘You Got the Part!: Auditions. Chapter 4: ‘Building a Character’: Rehearsal Processes. Chapter 5: ‘Another Opening, Another Show!’: Performance Practices. Chapter 6: ‘Passing the Baton’: Eleven Executors of Acting. Glossary of Terms. Bibliography. Index.