Behind the Curtain: The Job of Acting (Oberon Masters Series) - Hardcover

"[An] enjoyable little hardback - packed with good, solid pieces of advice for would-be actors as well as many humorous anecdotes - [contains] a number of fresh ideas and stories that will not be known to the general reader - should prove to be popular with the millions of fans of this versatile actor as well as youngsters keen to make their way in one of the most difficult professions that anyone could choose. Every purchaser will come away better informed and greatly entertained, which is no bad recommendation' British Theatre Guide 'It's a book full of insights - literally - and will be eagerly lapped up I think, by theatre buffs who see shows only from the auditorium. I'd also recommend it warmly to anyone in training as an actor or thinking of embarking on training to be one as a way of finding out from a dishy old pro exactly what an actor's life is like ... some lovely stories... fascinating' The Stage 'Full of witty asides and apercus' What's On Stage "

"If you have ever set foot in a theatre you will enjoy this book. Leading actor, Peter Bowles, invites us backstage in the West End and on tour to witness the job of acting as it really is. Behind The Curtain is based on his own career as a leading stage and TV actor for over 55 years and is the inside scoop on 'the profession' as told by a master raconteur. This is a warm-hearted look at the lived experience of a jobbing actor - and a survival guide to anyone thinking of entering this most emotionally gruelling of industries. With wit and style he recounts his personal views on rehearsals, touring, drama school, working with directors and other actors, and audiences. Armed with an array of classic anecdotes, Bowles shares some of the infamous ad-libs, opening night disasters and dressing room dramas that he has been party to over the years. Full of sage advice about the pitfalls of celebrity and the fluctuating fortunes of an actor - and his own journey from TV stardom to the labour exchange and back again. With tales of some biggest personalities in the history of showbiz such as Michael Gambon, Noel Coward, Rex Harrison, Laurence Olivier & John Gielgud, this is a book that captures the acting profession in all its eccentric glory. " .