I Don't Need an Acting Class

I Don't Need an Acting Class explores the challenges actors face as they digest what they have learned in a class or rehearsal and how to use their growing technique. Milton Justice received emails from actors in 2008, and this book brings together conversations between teacher and student, along with observations and commentary about acting technique and craft. The emails are meant to capture the feeling of a living, breathing process as it happens, and Stella Adler's letter to Justice demonstrates the power of a written exchange between a teacher and a student.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2021
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

I Don't Need an Acting Class delves into the intricate nuances of acting technique, through a series of captivating email conversations with a diverse range of actors. These conversations, spanning from aspiring students to seasoned professionals, shed light on the diverse challenges these actors encounter as they assimilate the knowledge gained from classes and rehearsals, while also exploring practical applications of their evolving skills.

The journey begins in 2008, when Milton Justice first started receiving emails from actors seeking guidance and insights into their craft. In response, Justice has compiled a captivating book that brings together these email conversations, along with his observations and commentary on acting technique and craft. It's important to note that not all of the emails in the book are meticulously crafted or fully formed. Instead, they aim to capture the raw, authentic essence of the acting process, as it unfolds in real-time. When an actor reaches out to a teacher or director with a problem, whether it's a simple observation or a deeper confusion, it signifies a creative artist venturing into uncharted territory.

One particularly poignant example is when Stella Adler, a renowned acting teacher, responded to a panicked note Justice had written to her during rehearsals for a new play. In her concise and thoughtful letter, Adler adeptly identified the problem and reminded Justice of its elegant solution. Justice was deeply moved by the care and attention Adler had bestowed upon him, and the letter still hangs over his desk as a testament to the power of written communication between a teacher and a student.

Through these conversations, I Don't Need an Acting Class offers valuable insights into the art of acting. It explores the importance of self-awareness, discipline, and continuous learning, as actors strive to refine their craft and bring authenticity to their performances. The book also sheds light on the collaborative nature of acting, emphasizing the importance of trust, respect, and open communication between actors and their peers.

Whether you're an aspiring actor or a seasoned professional, this book will provide you with valuable tools and perspectives to enhance your acting skills and deepen your understanding of the craft. So, embark on this captivating journey, and let the emails of I Don't Need an Acting Class inspire and guide you on your path to becoming a master of your art.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493061259