First Steps Towards an Acting Career (Stage & costume)

This is a guide to the training opportunities and choices available to aspiring actors. Beginning with early preparations, from singing to speech, dance, sport and general education, the author goes on to discuss A Level theatre studies, stage schools and BTech courses. He continues with a discussion on the advisability of going to drama school, and explains how to prepare for an interview, select an audition speech, and gives reasons why an applicant may not be accepted. Detailed outlines of full-time NCDT-approved courses are given, as well as details of some part-time courses. There is advice on what to expect from drama school. Prunella Scales, the actress, has contributed a chapter on the minimum requirements expected of an actor who has completed drama training, and there is a forward by Dame Judi Dench.