A primer for aspiring and beginning actors, by one of the most renowned and beloved acting coaches in the U.S. Introduction by Sydney Pollack. nSanford Meisner was one of the best known and beloved teachers of acting in the country. This book follows one of his acting classes for fifteen months, beginning with the most rudimentary exercises and ending with affecting and polished scenes from contemporary American plays. Written in collaboration with Dennis Longwell, it is essential reading for beginning and professional actors alike. Throughout these pages Meisner is a delight--always empathizing with his students and urging them onward, provoking emotion, laughter, and growing technical mastery from his charges. nWith an introduction by Sydney Pollack, director of Out of Africa and Tootsie, who worked with Meisner for five years. n nThis book should be read by anyone who wants to act or even appreciate what acting involves. Like Meisners way of teaching, it is the straight goods.--Arthur Miller n nIf there is a key to good acting, this one is it, above all others. Actors, young and not so young, will find inspiration and excitement in this book.--Gregory Peckn