Comedy Acting for Theatre: The Art and Craft of Performing in Comedies

This book explores the theory and practice of comedy, providing actors with insights into how to create memorable and hilarious performances. It combines theory and performance, analysing a variety of plays and featuring playwrights from Harold Pinter to Michael Frayn.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 208 pages
\n Publication date: 22 February 2018
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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This book delves into the intricate realm of laughter, exploring the reasons behind our comedic reactions and the elements that provoke laughter in audiences. By examining the works of various playwrights, including Harold Pinter, Tom Stoppard, Christopher Durang, and Michael Frayn, as well as delving into the art of acting in Shakespeare's comedies, the authors provide a comprehensive understanding of the comedic process. Through their analysis, they offer valuable insights into how performers can elicit and sustain laughter from their audiences, enabling them to create memorable and hilarious performances.

The book is grounded in performance and performance criticism, offering a deep exploration of the comedic mechanics. The authors, Sidney Homan and Brian Rhinehart, draw from their extensive experience in the field to provide a detailed account of how comedy operates. They offer practical advice on how performers can communicate comedy effectively from both the performer's perspective and the audience's viewpoint.

The authors employ a combination of theoretical frameworks and practical examples to analyze a diverse range of plays, both contemporary and classic. They examine the comedic elements present in plays such as "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare, and "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde, among others. By studying these plays in detail, the authors shed light on the techniques and strategies employed by playwrights to create laughter and engage audiences.

Furthermore, the book provides a comprehensive exploration of acting in Shakespeare's comedies. The authors discuss the unique challenges and opportunities that come with performing in these plays, including the importance of understanding the language, the nuances of character development, and the comedic timing required. They offer practical tips and techniques for actors to enhance their performances in Shakespeare's comedies, enabling them to bring the characters to life and deliver comedic moments with finesse and precision.

In conclusion, "Analysing Why We Laugh and What We Laugh At: Creating Memorable and Hilarious Performances" is a valuable resource for actors, directors, and anyone interested in the art of comedy. By providing a comprehensive analysis of laughter, the comedic process, and the elements that provoke laughter, the book empowers performers to create memorable and hilarious performances that resonate with audiences. Whether you are a seasoned actor or a newcomer to the stage, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice that will help you unlock the power of laughter and bring joy to your audiences.

\n Weight: 292g\n
Dimension: 161 x 217 x 12 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781350012776\n \n