Acting Stanislavski: A practical guide to Stanislavski’s approach and legacy

by John Gillett

Stanislavski was the first to outline a systematic approach for using our experience, imagination and observation to create truthful acting. 150 years after his birth, his approach is more widely embraced and taught throughout the world – but is still often rejected, misunderstood and misapplied.

In Acting Stanislavski , John Gillett offers a clear, accessible and comprehensive account of the Stanislavski approach, from the actor's training to final performance,

• ease and focus
• the nature of action, interaction and objectives
• the imaginary reality, senses and feeling
• active analysis of text
• physical and vocal expression of character
• the actor in the context of training and the industry.

Drawing on Stanislavski's major books, in both English translations, and on records of his directing process and final studio classes, Acting Stanislavski demystifies terms and concepts. It is for actors from an actor's point of view, and offers many practical exercises and examples as an integrated part of each subject.

Acting Stanislavski also creates an up-to-date overview of the Stanislavski approach, connecting his legacy with the work of his successors, from Michael Chekhov to Meisner, Adler and Strasberg.

A new, extended and fully updated edition of Acting on Reclaiming the Stanislavski Approach (Methuen Drama, 2007), Acting Stanislavski now includes new exercises and biographies, a further chapter on The Character, and an expanded glossary along with many other additions to the previous chapters. It is an essential practical and educational resource for any acting student, professional or teacher.

344 pages, Paperback

First published February 13, 2014

Reviews

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

While reading John Gillett’s ‘Acting Stanislavski’ I found myself in possession of a powerful guide which remedied a lot of the confusion surrounding the development of an effective acting process.
Gillett’s writing is precise and accessible, making it easy to grasp core concepts of the book while taking the reader way beyond the Stanislavski system.
An invaluable companion for those who dedicate themselves to truly mastering the craft of acting.

[Ethan Betts · Rating 3 out of 5]

Useful for a brief overview of certain processes. Doesn't meet the quality of the separate books by Stanislavski however. Good for referencing when beginning a new performance.

[Jeff Alan-Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book covers the entire gamut of acting and all the schools of acting that came from Stanislavski himself.