Aimed at the beginning acting student, this book by the renowned professor, playwright and director of stage and screen takes a commonsense approach to the craft. Building on basic techniques in the first section, it proceeds to tackle two distinct types of theater—comedy and Shakespearean verse. Core acting techniques are introduced through a series of simple exercises. One chapter on verse analyzes accent and rhythm with examples of dialogue that clarify difficult concepts while another chapter runs through fifteen comic situations that might come in handy in anybody’s life. Additional sections filled with warm-up exercises, guidelines for dialects and stage terminology add general usefulness to this indispensable volume. Whether you are pursuing a career onstage or simply curious about the creative contributions made by actors, this evening with one of Lakewood's newest residents is sure to illuminate and entertain. Books will be available for sale and signing at the event.