Hard Cover First published in 1933, “Acting: The First Six Lessons” is the classic work on what would later become known as Method acting by Richard Boleslavsky. Born in Russia in 1889, Boleslavsky began his acting career by studying under Konstantin Stanislavski at the Moscow Art Theatre where he learned about the “system”. After World War I, Boleslavsky both directed and acted in films in Poland and Germany before settling in New York, where he founded the American Laboratory Theatre in 1923. There he taught Stanislavski’s “system” to such students as Lee Strasberg and Stella Adler. Boleslavsky went on to direct many prominent films in Hollywood and wrote “Acting: The First Six Lessons”, which introduced a wider audience to the “system”. Now known as Method acting, Boleslavsky’s approach was based on his years of experience and guides actors in perfecting and understanding their craft. It has become widely practiced the world over and Boleslavsky’s work is considered an essential guide for both new and seasoned actors. “Acting: The First Six Lessons” is an engaging and accessible series of lessons and techniques to help all actors excel and grow in their craft. 

 

 Paperback 'Everybody wants to get into the act' said the old-time comic Jimmy Durante, but the fact is that becoming a professional actor requires a lot more than just the desire to break into the business. A clear understanding of how acting careers are built and the specific way that actors must position themselves in a professional environment overseen by directors, agents, casting directors and acting unions is essential to all would-be actors. Acting Professionally will steer you through this hugely competitive industry in the U.S., offering wise advice on everything from writing a successful resume to finding yourself an agent. The leading book in its field since its first edition in 1972, Acting Professionally 7th Edition is now fully updated, with the addition of co-author James Calleri (of Calleri Casting), and a new section on digital and web-based casting procedures. With comprehensive coverage of the new technologies of internet-transmitted performance videos, website casting, and electronic submissions, Acting Professionally will help you to create and sustain an acting career in the twenty-first century. 

 

3. The Student Actor's Handbook: Theatre Games and Exercises Paperback 1975 by Louis John Dezseran  

 A series of exercises and games designed to heop the student actor investigate ad improve his or her techniques. 214 pages