ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the value of preparation for the actor and the merits of various acting exercises. It argues that exercises and training are essential for the actor attempting to hone his or her talent. The chapter explores the importance of observation for the actor and provides several practical examples related to comedy. It shows that the most important exercise for an actor is observation of real people in real situations. The chapter offers the example of Maurice Chevalier working in front of a mirror as he creates the character of a beggar and of a priest. Good acting calls for a great deal of preparation, not only for each separate performance but for overall mastery of the craft. Every student of acting knows that career preparation involves thousands of hours, and many years of exercises. But acting exercises do not make the actor any more than writing exercises makes the novelist or practice in brush techniques makes a painter.
