ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book essentially falls into two halves: the first three chapters provide contextualising perspectives on the art of acting while the latter three chapters provide hands-on strategies for training, rehearsing and performing. It begins with a socio-cultural perspective on acting. The book offers an overview of some key, pioneering practitioners from the past 100 years. It also offers some insights into why people act and how they explore their acting practice. The book focuses on four different facets of the actor: magician, storyteller, healer and social-changer. It follows the practical arc of an actor's creative development, as he/she get really hands-on with the nuts and bolts of acting. Dynamic listening is not just about hearing with ears. It is about listening to the actor's partner's body and face, noting the changes in their energy and physical posture.
