How to Stop Acting

No, this isn't a guide to helping introverts learn how to loosen up and be themselves. Rather, it's a new perspective on auditioning for theater.""Acting doctor"" Guskin, who's worked with Kline, Glenn Close, James Gandolfini, Steve Martin and others, explains his strategy, which, at its core, states that actors do not have a responsibility to create characters, but to be continually responsive to their lines, wherever their inclinations take them. It's an honest, non-gimmicky take on a perennial problem. With specific anecdotes (e.g.,""Peter Fonda came to me in 1993, he wanted to rethink his acting"") and concrete advice (e.g.""take it slow"" and""let the script guide the research""), Guskin covers various acting scenarios, from the stage (including Shakespeare) to film and television. He imparts much wisdom, yet counsels,""discover what makes you tick as an actor. Use what works and discard whatever gets in the way, no matter how sound the concept.""