9781422287057

Chapter One

Acting on Stage and Screen

Y ou and some friends are at the movies, watching a blockbuster starring your favorite actor. She seems to be able to play any kind of character. Her last hit was a romantic comedy. This time, she is an alien in a science fiction film. And while you know much of the action is computer generated, it is still fun to watch her battle humans. You think to yourself: It must be fun to be able to be different kinds of people. At least for a little while. I’d love to dress up and become some- one else. And having superpowers would be all right, too . A few nights later, you and your family are at the theater to see a play. It is your first play, and you are not quite sure what to expect. After a while, you are completely caught up in what is happening on- stage. It seems so real. You have seen the actors on television and in the movies, but never right in front of you. But the truth is, you really do

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