Saturday, October 25, 2008

Acting Class Take A Seat by Milton Katselas

Mr. Katselas has worked with some of the best names in the business. His main thing now is to teach acting classes. But he does it in a way that the students do all the work. He wants them to be able to do pretty much anything that is required and go after the roles that they think they would fit the best. He understands that type casting happens but you can break out of that too if you work hard enough. It all comes down to business. Reading through the chapters, I saw how difficult it is even for actors. The exercises presented in this book were great! I have taken an acting class and have seen similar things done.

They want the parts but they have to believe in themselves before they can get anywhere. They also have to prepare for any situation and script. There is a time and place for improvisation but rarely in that industry. You have to get along with others as well as cut the gossip. I can see everything he says is true. It is nice to have someone who spells it out as it is now. And with the involvement he has had, this one guy I would pay attention to.

I may not be an actor but I was impressed with how well things were laid out. This is one author who knows what he is talking about and not just writing for the fun of it. Lots to learn and knowledge to acquire; a must have for any one who is an actor or who wants to be one. Being involved whether in theatre or film, the principles still remain. I learned a lot from it myself.

Milton Katselas/Non-fiction/ Acting/ 320 pages/ 4 out of 5

Off to rest. I have one more review book and then back to my own pile. :)