7 Books Every Performer Should Read

August 19, 2011

1. The Artist’s Way-Julia Cameron

When I first read “The Artists Way” by Julia Cameron, (ex-wife of Martin Scorsese) I felt like I had just opened the Holy Grail for all artists. Not only was there a wealth of information about how to stay inspired, live, breathe and manifest a world that is fueled by Art, but there were tools, assignments and quotes that helped you along the entire way. This isn’t just a book to read once, it’s a reference for life. Truly amazing.

http://www.theartistsway.com/index.php

2. Audition- Michael Shurtleff

Almost every acting coach that I’ve had has recommended that I read this book-- when in doubt, before an audition, I’ll pick it up, flip to any page and find a piece of information that makes me feel like I’m armed with more knowledge to walk out of my audition feeling more confident.

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/audition-michael-shurtleff/1100623272

3. The Creative Habit- Twyla Tharp

Twyla Tharp, famous for choreographing Deuce Coupe for the Joffrey Ballet, the Broadway show “Movin’ Out,” to name a few- amongst other film, theater and ballets, also ventured into writing and revealing the tricks that she uses to make creativity a HABIT, rather than just a bolt of inspiration. Another book you won’t want to put down---one of her key pieces of advice, “BEGIN.” Simple enough, right?

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Habit-Learn-Use-Life/dp/0743235266

4. The Hollywood Assistants Handbook- Peter Nowalk

While not all of you work as assistants, there are tips in this book that are invaluable when it comes to working in the industry, or with/around “big wigs.” I took an assistant job for a few years in Los Angeles and the relationships/lessons from that job carried into everything I do as an entertainer.

http://www.amazon.com/Hollywood-Assistants-Handbook-Aspiring-Players/dp/0761147462/ref=pd_sim_b_8

5. Life is a Verb- Patti Digh

Patti Digh puts together a collection of inspiring quotes, life lessons and tools to remember a few simple things; be grateful, VISUALIZE, be MINDFUL, live intentionally and do what. you. love. We all need to remember that one, especially in “meltdown moments.”

http://www.amazon.com/Life-Verb-Days-Mindful-Intentionally/dp/1599212951/ref=pd_sim_b_55

6. All You Need to Know About the Music Business- Donald Passman

The music business is a tricky place to navigate right now, with the internet, illegal downloads and everyone managing, booking, and creating their own careers. Donald Passman gives you the insight you need to make good business deals, manage your own career and not get taken advantage of, KEY!

http://www.amazon.com/Need-Know-About-Music-Business/dp/1439153019/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1313778960&sr=1-1

7. Respect for Acting- Uta Hagen

“If you want a bourgeois existence, you shouldn't be an actor. You're in the wrong profession.” One of my favorite quotes from Uta. You could easily read books by Meisner, Adler, etc. as well---Uta just has some spunk and insight that really got me.

http://www.amazon.com/Respect-Acting-Uta-Hagen/dp/0470228482/ref=sr_1_37?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1313779403&sr=1-37

7 BOOKS EVERY PERFORMER SHOULD READ