"Advice to the Players" by Robert Lewis is a comprehensive guide that offers valuable insights and practical advice for actors and performers looking to enhance their skills and find success in the industry. Lewis, a renowned acting teacher and director, shares his deep knowledge and expertise throughout the book, covering various topics that are essential for aspiring actors.
One of the central themes in the book is the importance of understanding and analyzing characters. Lewis provides a detailed breakdown of the elements that make up a compelling character, including their desires, flaws, and relationships. He offers practical exercises and techniques that help actors fully immerse themselves in their characters, enabling them to bring them to life on stage or screen.
Another significant aspect of the book is Lewis' emphasis on voice and movement. He highlights the importance of vocal and physical expression in portraying characters convincingly. Through exercises and guidance, he helps actors develop their vocal range, diction, and physicality, allowing them to effectively communicate their characters' emotions and intentions.
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The book also delves into the world of improvisation, an essential skill for actors. Lewis explores the principles of improvisation and provides exercises aimed at improving spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration among actors. He emphasizes the value of improvisation in enhancing an actor's ability to think on their feet and react authentically in any situation.
Additionally, "Advice to the Players" provides valuable insights into the audition process. Lewis addresses common challenges and offers strategies to master auditions and leave a lasting impression. His advice covers everything from selecting and preparing audition pieces to managing nerves and making strong choices.
What are readers saying?
The book "Advice to the Players" authored by Robert Lewis has garnered a diverse range of reviews. Numerous readers applauded Lewis for his perceptive advice and guidance on the art of acting. They found his explanations to be lucid and highly beneficial, offering valuable insights into the craft. Several reviewers appreciated Lewis's emphasis on understanding characters, their motivations, and the significance of improvisation and establishing a connection with the audience.
However, some readers considered the book to be outdated and not relevant to modern acting techniques. They believed that the content was more suited for theater actors rather than those pursuing film or television acting. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that the book had a tendency to be repetitious, with certain concepts reiterated throughout the text.
Many readers found great value in Lewis's inclusion of anecdotes and personal stories, which added a personal touch and made the book more compelling. His experiences in the theater industry resonated with aspiring actors, providing inspiration and motivation for their own journeys.
One criticism frequently mentioned by reviewers was the lack of concrete exercises or practical activities in the book. Some readers were seeking more hands-on guidance to assist them in applying the concepts discussed. Furthermore, a handful of individuals felt that the book leaned more towards a memoir rather than a traditional acting guide, which may not have been in line with their expectations.
In conclusion, "Advice to the Players" by Robert Lewis has drawn a range of reviews from readers. While many found it to be a valuable resource, offering insightful advice, others felt that it lacked practical exercises and may not be as relevant to modern acting techniques. Nevertheless, Lewis's personal anecdotes and reflections on the craft of acting were highly appreciated by many, providing a unique perspective to the book.
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