Acting Comedy

<p>Despite being roundly cited as much harder to perform than its dramatic counterpart comic acting is traditionally seen as a performance genre that can’t be taught. At best it is often described as a skill that can only be learned on the job through years of practice or given to a performer through natural talent. </p><p>Acting Comedy is an effort to examine this idea more rigorously by looking at different aspects of the comic actor’s craft. Each chapter is written by an expert in a particular form—from actors and directors to teachers and standup comedians. Topics covered include:</p><ul> <p> </p> <li>how performers work with audiences</li> <p> </p> <li>how comic texts can be enhanced through word and musical rhythm analysis</li> <p> </p> <li>how physical movements can generate comic moments and build character.</li> </ul><p>This book is an invaluable resource for any performer focusing on the minute details of comic acting even down to <i>exactly </i>how one delivers a joke on stage. Christopher Olsen’s unique collection of comic voices will prove essential reading for students and professionals alike.</p>