The Work of an Actor: Michael Woolson on Technique

by Michael Woolson

The Work of an Actor sets a new industry standard that provides reference tools like no other. As a result, it delivers a wealth of clear, detailed instructions and inspiration for giving unforgettably captivating performances for actors of all levels. With more than twenty years of experience in acting, coaching, and directing, Michael Woolson not only shares the essential foundation and mechanics of acting in a clear and concise manner but he also demystifies sitcom technique, playing a killer, creating authentic fear, making sense of bad direction, how to audition effectively, and building layered character work. Plus, he introduces the most extensive chapter ever written on how to give believable drug-induced performances without drugs as well as the first-ever list of great dialects in films to use as research.

Genres: Nonfiction

290 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2010

Reviews

[Shari Campa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most useful acting book I've read

Michael Woolson is an incredible author that clearly and compassionately gives you tools here that are tangible and applicable for any actor. A great actor needs specificity and Michael lays out a plethora of beautifully articulated examples in this book on how to be specific. Not only that, this book is a book about life and loving yourself. I can't recommend it anymore highly.

[Cam Bruder]

Read for class. Meh.

[Uncle Drewskii · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book such as this give an actor better insight on how to handle many things in the film industry. I am currently in acting school and this book gave me many nuggets on how to handle myself as an actor on and off the camera. Most of all, he gives you tid bits from actors that will help when inserting into my work. Those who are looking to become actors or add more tools into your belt, this is a well recommended book in order to do so. Take it slow and digest it. Then apply what you’ve learned in different areas of your acting to experience the full product. You won’t be able to apply everything at once, but continue to return to it and use it little by little in order to take full advantage of such an informative read.

[Chandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may be the best on the technique of Acting that I have ever read.

[Haldane Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never found a more profound book on acting as this book by Michael Woolson! A must read for all actors now and future!!!