This book is an INVALUABLE resource. And I'm not a traditional actor, I'm an opera singer. I had to read this for a class on (what else?) auditioning, and loved it so much that I finished it the first day of class. Shurtleff's 12 Guideposts, carefully applied to just about any performance (I use them for arias, art songs, etc), can help create something nuanced and fascinating. As if the guideposts weren't enough, Shurtleff gives wonderful ideas on the nitty-gritty of auditions (how to present your past experience, what to wear, etc). I just can't say enough good about this book. When I perform an operatic scene that I've run through the 12 guideposts, I get comments like, "You're a great actress! You really have a theatrical flair!" Boy, does that feel good. I'd give this thing six stars if I could. I hate to even tell other people about this book, because then everyone can gain my edge.

This book is a must have for anyone who auditions. It provides helpful suggestions that every actor, professional or amatuer, must know! Micheal Shurtleff address the issues of dress, attitude, persistance, and many others. No matter if you are auditioning for Broadway, Hollywood, or community theatre you must read this book!

People say that this is a book that no actor should be without. I disagree- this is a book that no person involved in drama at all should be without. Drama teacher, actor, writer, director- everybody needs this. It's been said that shortly after this book was first published, a lot of not-so-good actors were getting cast- simply because their auditions were going so well. If you're ever going to be involved in an audition- or just want to learn about it- then you must read this.