by Kenneth L. Stilson, Larry D. Clark, Charles McGaw
The organization of the book is very strong. I like the order of the chapters because I believe they present the material from basic information to more specific information. The physical and vocal work in Chapter Two is excellent and provides a great roadmap for the student to work on their own, or in class. This is an excellent book to introduce [students] to the study of acting beyond the basics of being comfortable on stage. . . . This text grabs the student's attention with its layout, photos, and examples. It is well-structured for understanding the process of acting. It is easily readable with strong application exercises. Kenneth L. Stilson is a Professor of Acting, Directing, and Musical Theatre and former Founding Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance in The Earl and Margie Holland School of Visual and Performing Arts at Southeast Missouri State University. As a director, writer, or actor, he has worked in such theatres as the Lincoln Center (New York City), American Academy of Dramatic Art/Hudson Theatre (Los Angeles), Southern Repertory Theatre (New Orleans), Le Petite Theatre (New Orleans), Alabama Lyric Theatre, Stage West Theatre (Ft. Worth), Shakespeare in the Park (Ft. Worth), First Run Theatre (St. Louis), and Missouri's Summer Repertory Theatre. He has also been involved in the Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival and the Mississippi Shakespeare Festival. Over the past 28 years at various institutions, Stilson has directed and trained hundreds of actors, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers in film, television, and stage, winning several Tony and Obie Awards. He has written numerous award-winning plays and screenplays, as well as published a biography and a range of national and international articles on acting and theatre. Stilson holds both a Ph.D. and M.A. in Theatre from the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he studied under the tutelage of Larry D. Clark.
