Jean Benedetti's new translation of Toporkov's invaluable record restores to us the vitality and insight of Stanislavski's mature thoughts on acting. Toporkov's account offers an insight into Stanislavski's legendary 'system' and his method of rehearsal that became known as the method of physical action.
A splendid inside view of how Stanislavski's method changed and was used by the great master in the last performances he directed just before his passing. The comparison between the actor's training, and theatre practices in general, that were current at that time and Stanislavski's evolving system, made by leading actor Toporkov ( having the background to support his comparisons with examples), is in my mind one of the most significant assets of the book.