In this book, Mark Olsen asks 'Why should inspiration and growth in the spiritual dimension be relegated only to poets, musicians, painters and dancers? The actor, too, has the right and the means to enter through the mysterious gates and struggle to awaken'. Olsen describes his own education as a theatre professional who insists on combining self-development and universal ideals with his stage practice. This collection of informal essays is connected by the author's belief that theatre has many of the same aims as spiritual practice. Topics include theatre history, Stanislavski -- the mystic realist, higher purpose, sexual energy and acting, channeling, and others. The inclusion of a set of practical exercises, suitable for workshop or classroom settings, makes this an ideal introductory book for anyone with an interest in acting.

About the Author
Mark Olsen has a background both in professional theater and also on the spiritual path. He first studied acting in college, then studied Kabbalist mime, shaman theater-craft, and experimental theater. He has been on Broadway, toured with the mime/mask group Mummenschanz, and has taught at the University of Houston and Wright State University. He is a professor of acting and movement with the Pennsylvania State University School of Theatre and the author of The Actor with a Thousand Faces and The Conception Mandala. He lives in State College, Pennsylvania.


Book Information
ISBN 9780895560582
Author Mark Olsen
Format Paperback
Page Count 128
Imprint Gateways Books & Tapes,US
Publisher Gateways Books & Tapes,US
Weight(grams) 390g
Dimensions(mm) 215mm * 139mm * 16mm