The Craft of Comedy
English
By (author): Athene Seyler Stephen Haggard
a work on the art and craft of comedy as important in its own way as works by Stanislavski and Chekhov Oxford Theatre Companion
In 1939, a young, inexperienced actor wrote to a famous actress of his acquaintance, asking for advice on playing comedy. She responded enthusiastically, and they corresponded variously over the next year. The Craft of Comedy, a record of these exchanges, soon emerged as one of the few classic texts in the field of comedy acting.
This major new edition takes a brilliant book and makes it better. Editor Robert Barton has devised extensive supplementary material, including:
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- An introduction to the correspondents, the culture of the time, and the evolution of their book;
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- Summaries, definitions, and exercises and practice scenes for readers wishing to explore Athene Seylers invaluable advice;
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- Photographs, additional essays by Seyler, and a guide to easily accessed video clips of her performing.
Seylers lucid guidance, and Bartons scrupulous editorship, ensure this legendary works rightful status is restored: as one of the great practical guides to the craft of comedy, and an essential resource for actors and students of acting.
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