Konstantin Stanislavsky, the Russian director and actor and co-founder, in 1898, of the Moscow Art Theatre, was the originator of the most influential system of acting in the history of western theatre. Many of Stanislavsky's concepts are widespread in popular thought on acting; this book offers a evaluation of the basis of his ideas, discussing whether the system has survived because Stanislavsky made discoveries about acting that are and always have been scientifically verifiable, or whether his methods work on a practical basis despite an outdated theory. Drawing on information that has...

Rose Whyman provides an engaging introduction to the life, thought and impact of Konstantin Stanislavski. Regarded by many as a great innovator of 20th century theatre, this book examines Stanislavski's life and the context of his writings, major works in English translation, ideas in practical contexts, and his impact on modern theatre.