The Actor Within

August 1, 2011

Dancer and photographer Eichenbaum here uses the successful format she showcased in The Dancer Within. She interviewed and photographed well-known actors who have made indelible contributions to American theater and cinema. Portraying a full range of actors from the youngest, like Elijah Wood and Julia Stiles, to seasoned performers such as Charles Durning, Ruby Dee, and Gloria Stuart, the author gets right to the essence of how and why each chose acting as a career. She also captures each personality with a single revealing photograph. The short, enlightening interviews give glimpses into the psyches and motivations that drove these entertainers to achieve success in a profession often plagued with challenges and disappointments. What makes an actor want to act? That question is answered by 35 familiar actors in frank, honest interview responses. VERDICT Offering valuable insight into the mind of an actor, this must-read for any aspiring performer will please even the casual reader.--Richard A. Dickey, Washington, DC

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