The Integrated Actor - by Alex Taylor (Hardcover)

About the Book

Combining work on physical and vocal embodiment with exercises in imagination and interpretation, this book facilitates a fuller, freer and more complete use of the self when it comes to creating a role.

Book Synopsis

Combining work on physical and vocal embodiment with exercises in imagination and interpretation, this book facilitates a fuller, freer and more complete use of the self when it comes to creating a role.

Building on established methodologies and existing research, such as the Alexander Technique, Estill Voice Craft, polyvagal theory and works by major practitioners - including Michael Langham, Niamh Dowling, Glen Park, Carolyn Serota, Sally Grace, Patsy Rodenburg, Cicely Berry, Kristin Linklater and Josephine Estill - this book offers a holistic approach to voice work and acting.

Review Quotes

"Alex Taylor has a lifetime's experience of working with actors, in the industry and in training, and a great knowledge and understanding of how the imagination, body and voice work together. He has great knowledge and understanding of the actor's body and voice . He does not preach but offers us practical help and encouragement . He is realistic, offering a great range of exercises which are easy to follow, inviting us to make our own choices and judgements and to keep our individuality. I wish this book had been available to me as a young actor but at least I can use it now." --Lynn Farleigh

"Working with Alex Taylor at theatre school in my formative years was transformative to say the least. I owe so much of my development as a young actor to Alex and his teachings. At once intense, gently radical and subtly powerful, Alex Taylor's methods and discourse made me the actor I am today. Thank you Alex!" --Kevin McKidd

About the Author

Alex Taylor teaches at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (Acting). Previously, he was Head of Voice at Rose Bruford, UK; Director of the School of Theatre at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK; one of the Master Teachers at the Juilliard School, US; and Head of Voice and Movement at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. He has directed productions for the National Theatre of Korea and the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and led masterclasses in acting and voice at the Shanghai Theatre Academy and the University of Korea. He has also worked at the RSC as a voice coach on a number of productions.