Dedication

Buckets of gratitude to my husband Ron Gorow—without his love, support and formatting skills you would not be reading this; my daughters, Christina, Cynthia and Catherine for their encouragement and enthusiasm; friends: Robin Gee for her time, inspiration and start-up skills; Steven Nash for his valuable opinions; Samantha Harper for her magic; assistants: Christine Niemi, Tricia Gilfone and Carol Hernandez; proofreaders: Ron Gorow and Bonnie Howard; to the two newest people in my life: my research editor Jim Martyka who has helped me produce this edition with joy and ease, and to my friend Distinguished Professor Charles Rossman, who has awakened me to the world of literature and language—you have made this truly the golden edition. Finally, to my teacher Joan Darling, for her continued guidance and all my students over the years for whom this was written.

Thank you to the many experts who have been so
generous with their contributions, especially:

Joan Darling
Lori Frankian
Bonnie Gillespie
Carlyne Grager
Wendy Haines
Bonnie Howard
Kimberly Jentzen
Jim Martyka
Steven Nash
Scott Sedita
Brittani Taylor
Michael Wallach
Caryn West
Cover Design: Thomas Cobb and Greg Hain
Cover Photo: Kevyn Major Howard

Table of Contents

Career Advice for Beginners 14
How to Use this Book 16
About the Resources Listed 17
I Believe . . . 18

SECTION ONE
Developing Your Talent

Preparing for Success and Living Your Dream 19
What is Acting? 25
Acting Technique 29
Acting Training 45
Coaches and Teachers:
Basic Technique and Scene Study Classes 52
Audition Techniques and Audition Teachers 62
Comedy, Sitcom, Standup 69
Comedy Coaches 78
Private Acting Coaches 81
Improvisation 85
Voice and Voice Teachers 89
Create Your Life 97 Career and Life Coaches 104
Stage Presence - Body Awareness - Body Movement 113
Scripts for Workshop Scenes and Monologues 118
Monologues 121
How to Rehearse and Prepare for
Class, Auditions and Jobs 126
Memorizing 133
Acting Books and Tapes 138
Fake Cigarettes, Tears, Sweating and Funny Teeth 143