Your best performance is still to come! In the latest edition of his book An Actor Performs, Shapiro breaks down the techniques that enable actors to connect with script and character on a new level:

In part I, “The Tools,” explore the basics through storytelling and improvisation, and learn to analyze language in a way that will allow you to own the role.
In part II, “The Process,” delve into exercises that will help you tap into your imagination and connect with your personal experiences to enhance the portrayal of the challenges faced by your character.
In part III, “The Characterization,” flesh out your character’s personal experiences, and learn more about yourself and your character via various methods of performance art.
In part IV, “Extending Your Range,” partake in advanced exercises to dig deeper and expand the connection with character and audience.
In part V, “Performing,” hear from some of the best in interviews with actors Ron Leibman, Olympia Dukakis, Laura San Giacomo, Allison Janney, and Mel Shapiro himself as they discuss the nature of acting on the stage and for the screen.

Forget the jargon-laden textbooks of the past, and instead learn through firsthand experiences with Mel Shapiro and An Actor Performs.

About the Author

Mel Shapiro is head of acting at UCLA and has taught acting from coast to coast. Shapiro was a founding member of what is now the Tisch School for the Arts at New York University and headed the drama department at Carnegie Mellon University. During his long career, Shapiro has directed on Broadway, off Broadway, and everywhere in between and has earned many awards for his efforts. In addition to An Actor Performs, Shapiro is also author of The Director's Companion.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

ThriftBooks is a fully independent seller of used books, having sold more than 160 million used and new books since we started in 2003. Each quality used book is sorted, graded, shelved and shipped by hand by our team of dedicated employees in our seven warehouses across the US. We have the best selection of books, in the right condition and format, at everyday low prices. We also have a dedicated, US-based Customer Service team, ranked in the top three by Newsweek for Best Customer Service in 2018 and 2019, so you can shop with confidence. We support and invest in our employees, appreciate and value our customers, and truly believe in the power of the written word to educate, energize, and engage readers of all ages and interests.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Thrift Books Global LLC
18300 Cascade Ave S, Seattle, WA, 98188, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

We guarantee each book that we send you. If you have any problems, please contact
our dedicated customer service department. They will do everything possible to
ensure you are happy with your order.

Shipping Terms

All domestic Standard shipments are distributed from our warehouses by OSM, then handed off to the USPS for final delivery.

2-Day Shipping is delivered by FedEx, which does not deliver to PO boxes.

International shipments are tendered to the local postal service in the destination country for final delivery – We do not use courier services for international deliveries.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	4 to 8 business days	4 to 8 business days
First item	US$ 0.00	US$ 0.00

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.