On the Technique of Acting

I Hear great things about Checkov and His performance as an actor. And can tell you that this is all true after reading this book...His concerns on truth, concentration and attention are extremely necessary for an actor to read about and learn to distinguish between each one. His comments on criticism are spot on. And Much of this understanding I have come to myself through another approach, but anyone that attends to truth knows that we can all see it, it is no ones property. There is so much to discover in this book and it will give you the fundamentals that you need. As an actor do not disregard fundamentals as it may be the only thing you need to learn from anyone. I know it has been that way for me. To be a great actor you have to study on your own as well. Michael Chekhov has Just added so much value and appreciation to my work, and alone knowing that we relate is enough to spark my passion for the craft. I have read other books and most of them serve as methods, I however know that methods have their limits. Creativity does not, and a strong emphasis on truth and true creativity without involving the intellectual part of your brain in the moment of acting will allow you to create without the constraints of realism which sometimes is not how life ought to be. To create the right kind of character for each given situation. Right kind does not imply a sense of strictness. Anyway enjoy the book and have fun. Sincerely Sky Watersend

I would recommend without reservation the study of this updated analysis of the craft of acting by Michael Chekhov. At one time closely affiliated with Stanislavski and his Moscow Art Theatre, Chekhov (a nephew of the great playwright Anton Chekhov) departed from the techniques enunciated by Stanislavski-and imported, though in a deformed shape, to America with Strasberg's "Method acting"-to concentrate on abilities and focuses by the actor he felt KS (Stanislavski) had omitted or under-appreciated. For the serious actor today, a knowledge of both Stanislavski and Chekhov's techniques are vital, and this book provides, along with an informative and interesting biographical introduction (by Mel Gordon), and an afterword (by Mala Powers) giving insights about adapting Chekhov's acting techniques to Hollywood film acting, 9 chapters summarizing Chekhov's teachings on acting.

I have studied a lot of different techniques and acting practitioners. Chekhov is much more spiritual than others, but if you embrace what he has to say in this book, and possibly work with a coach, you will find that he provides some concrete examples and exercises that will free your body, mind, and soul, and pursue actually what matter in the art.

A must read and reread and DO! For all actors, teachers and directors. This 1991 published book contains the final additions to Michael Chekhov's amazing body-mind-spirit approach to actor/human development. Easier to understand and apply than To The Actor and it has The Chart For Inspired Acting that provides a concept the the whole approach. This was drawn for Mala Powers who was later, the executrix of his estate and a noted speaker/master teacher. She includes special tips on film techniques that he gave her in private coachimg.

One of the books you need to have in your shelf as an actor.

Great book. In my opinion this is a mast for any one who wants to know more about acting and about theatre in general.

It was nice reading this, I had to get it for my school but it really did help.

This came as described. Came on time and arrived NEW in a plastic packing. Very good! Thank you!

Ordered for use on drama course

After reading this book in my university library I knew I had to have a copy of my own. Chekhov's emphasis on imagination really appealed to the way I work as an actor and his exercises have helped me greatly in my productions and performances. Highly recommended.

The definitive Michael Chekhov book with an excellent foreword and introduction that makes sense of how his technique evolved. Detailed explanations and 90% of the exercises you can try, to enhance your understanding, can be done alone. Great part of an Actors library.

Perfect conditions!

can't wait to transform my way of being! thx guys! I owe ya one