The Craft

Leave the Agony Behind

"Think of your pet dog having a thousand needles stuck into him over his entire body. Think of his pain. Now, while in this state, do your monologue for me." I don’t ever want to think of those images, especially before shooting a scene.

Write Without Yourself in Mind

Eileen Rivera, a New York-based writer and producer, found writing becomes much more effective if she didn't write herself into her plays.

You Can't Fake It

Here are some signs that you might not be acting totally truthfully: unnatural body language, movement that's general, an unctuous tone in your voice.

On Directing Kids

"Young actors have an advanced understanding of the thought processes of people," asserts Robert Kelley, of the Bay Area's TheatreWorks, in the midst of directing two preteens and a teen in "To Kill a Mockingbird."

Raphael Sbarge Says the Work is What Matters

A star on ABC's "Once Upon a Time," actor and teacher Raphael Sbarge sees every audition as an opportunity to hone in on your weaknesses and strengths.

The Root of Good Acting (Pt. 3)

What are you doing when you act on the line?  You read the script and think, "This is what the line is telling me to do."

Look to Express in an Audition, Not Impress

Kimberly Vaughn, of Kimberly Vaughn Performance Studio, urges actors to head into an audition looking to express emotion, rather than impress the table.

Avoiding a Common ‘Actor Trap'

Acting teacher Anthony Vincent Bova advises that actors can't shut down uncomfortable emotions if they want to convey them onstage.

Stillness is Golden

Bill Howey wants you to stop moving and stay still to make the greatest impact.