To the Actor: On the Technique of Acting

First published in 1953, To the Actor has proven highly influential with many of the world’s best-known actors. With numerous examples and exercises, Chekhov relates his own system of acting, one founded upon the use of personal experience and perception to generate artistic form.


“Even the layman will find enjoyment as well as illumination.”—Harold Clurman


“To the Actor is by far the best book that I have read on the subject of acting. 

Actors, directors, writers and critics will be grateful for it.”—Gregory Peck


“To the Actor remains a book that should be included in the library of anyone interested in acting. The techniques it offers the actor for tapping his personal reservoir of images and impulses are fresh and stimulating. The implementing exercises are extremely well thought out and presented with the utmost clarity and attention to detail.”—Harold V. Gould, Educational Theatre Journal