Acting Manuals Every Aspiring Thespian Should Read

Whoever said that acting is an easy job? Getting into character could be difficult especially when an actor’s real emotions are far from what he or she is supposed to portray. When this happens, we have to look at acting as a profession. Thankfully, some books provide us with tips on how to be ready for the job.

“An Actor Prepares” by Konstantin Stanislavski: Every serious actor must have encountered this book. With exercises and techniques taken from the diary of a fictional student named Kostya, Stanislavski, the book lets readers get acquainted with his system that has been used for more than a century.

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“Strasberg’s Method” by S. Loraine Hull: The teachings of America’s father of method acting are all here. Those who have doubts on this school of acting will find their questions answered. Also, this book has exercises taught by Strasberg himself to get an actor into character.

“Audition” by Michael Shurtleff: Casting director and actor Michael Shurtleff helps aspiring actors ace the audition process. Having given breakthrough roles to Dustin Hoffman, Elliot Gould, Barbra Streisand, and other iconic names in show business, Shurtleff shares how auditionees can be the best match for a role.

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These books have helped me navigate the business of acting during my early days. When I feel the need to go back to my roots, I pick up these books and reacquaint myself with some of the practices. Sometimes it’s best to think of yourself as a rookie again so you could keep on growing as an actor.

My name is Louis P. Habash. Theater has been my life for more than two decades now. Even if I’m getting older, there’s no stopping me from being a part of this whimsical world. Follow me on Facebook for more of my theater adventures.

Singing Rx: A Guide to Protecting Your Voice

For an actor, one’s voice is a prized asset, more so if one does musical productions. Don’t get me wrong: there is more to acting than sheer pronunciation, intonation, and enunciation. But one cannot deny the power of voice and singing in delivering a message. There are a few basic strategies that are used to ensure that one’s voice is kept safe and protected.

Learn proper techniques: Singing should never be strained. Techniques are available so that even when reaching high notes, the throat is relaxed. Improper techniques can lead to injury, swelling, or bruising. The key, experts say, is learning to control the breathing. Experienced singers are conscious of their breathing and maintain the same level of relaxation regardless of the notes.

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Practice warm-ups: Voice therapists highly recommend calisthenics. The throat muscles need to be warmed-up before singing sessions. This is similar to any physical exercise. Immediately jumping in without proper warm-up can result in breaks. Singers should develop a warm-up return that adjusts the throat muscles accordingly.

Maintain awareness: Many singers forget that the voice is also connected to talking. Sometimes, they talk too much (especially in noisy areas) which strains their vocal chords. Even if they maintain good singing practices, it would be all for naught if they do not practice good talking habits as well.

Rest and hydration: Like any athlete, singers need to be conscious of their health. Voice quality is dependent on one’s health. It is also highly recommended to be properly hydrated before any stage performance.

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Singers should also consider enlisting a group of professionals specially trained to protect and develop one’s voice.

Broadway musical actor, Louis P Habash often gives guides like this to help fellow thespians maintain their performance. Learn more by following this Twitter page.

Own the Room: Nailing an Audition for a Musical

Auditions are seriously one of the toughest parts of an actor’s career. Even actors like me who have been on stage for the past two decades still shudder at the thought of an audition. Especially for musicals.

Trying out for a musical requires that an actor be a good singer and dancer as well. More than being concerned with having the precise delivery, musical actors must also ensure that they are also in perfect tune. Those who dream of landing a role in a musical must make sure that they know their audition song very well—in different keys and arrangements. When you enter the room and sing your song, and the progressions should be the least of your worries. The panel watching is most of the time familiar with the piece you’re performing. If you’ve been in line for the past five hours, it’s more likely that they’ve heard the “Defying Gravity” 15 times and are unforgiving. A word of advice: If you have the freedom to look for an audition piece, choose something that you can perform even when you’re asleep.

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First impressions also matter so it’s important that you wear comfortable clothing. If you’re going to wait in line for a long time, wearing a costume might set the odds against you. The people who will judge you want to see a person who would be fit for the role they are looking for even when he or she isn’t in costume. They want someone who can be an actor, singer, and dancer while fully embodying a different persona. Give them a performance that will make them feel that their musical is truly coming to life. Break a leg!

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Hello, my name is Louis P. Habash and musical theater is my life. Apart from satiating my artistic ego, theater has also been my bread and butter for the past 20 years. I’ve been in and out of so many different roles, and I’ve been in more musicals than you can actually name. Follow me on Facebook for more of my theater adventures.