Acting Class: Take A Seat by Milton Katselas

On its exterior, Acting Class looks pretty straightforward: A book about acting for actors. And that might lead you to think, “I’m no actor. There’s nothing in this book for me.” Well, you couldn’t be more wrong. Acting Class isn’t really about acting. It’s more like a manual for people trying to manage difficult things. Sure, all of the book’s scenarios are drawn from the author’s experiences as a director and acting teacher/coach. But the wisdom that jumps off of every page could easily be applied to most readers’ professional (and even personal) lives. Simply put, Katselas says, “Acting is hard! You’re going to need a lot to make it in this business!” And anyone who has ever pursued a life in music, writing, acting or… just about anything, is likely to relate to the things covered in this book. Over and over again, Katselas demonstrates how the pursuit of acting should also be the pursuit of truth and sincerity. Not just with screenplays or scripts. But with life itself. For example, a section of the book is devoted to what Katselas called “Administration.” This section gives important tips on how to help maintain good emotional/physical/financial health. And the stuff might seem basic, but I learned a few things!

All of that aside, the best part of Acting Class is Katselas’s vibrant and direct writing style. His passion and confidence shine through every word, making the book very fun to read. I was saddened to learn that Mr. Katselas passed away just before I received his book. He will be missed.

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