About the Book:

A bible for the business of show business – a modern classic – this book is a favourite among actors.

Since its original publication, Acting as a Business has earned a reputation as an indispensable tool for working and aspiring actors. Brian O'Neil is a former talent agent and personal manager who has represented actors for theatre, film, television, commercials, and radio. As a talent representative, he was responsible for the career guidance and professional placement for hundreds of actors. Avoiding the usual advice about persistence and luck, Brian O'Neil provides clear-cut guidelines that will give actors a solid knowledge of the business behind their art. It's packed with practical information – on everything from what to say in a cover letter to where to stand when performing in an agent's office – including:

• Tactics for getting an agent, including preparing for the interview
• How to research who will be casting what – and whether there is a role for you – well in advance
• Examples of correspondence to agents and casting directors for both beginning and advanced professionals
• A detailed analysis of the current trend of paying to meet industry personnel
• How to communicate effectively with an agent or personal manager
• Creative ways to use the internet and social media

Brian O'Neil has updated Acting as a Business to keep up with the latest show-business trends, making this fifth edition a reference no actor should be without. It is required or recommended reading in many conservatory acting-training programs, including The Yale School of Drama and The Juilliard School.

What people say:

"O'Neil shares his business savvy in this slim, practical-minded actor's guide that covers everything from approaching agents to assembling resumes." – Entertainment Weekly magazine

About the Author:

Brian O'Neil is an American acting career coach, audition coach, and former agent as well as the author of Acting As a Business: Strategies for Success. He lives in New York City and works with actors at all stages of their careers. He also works with actors, athletes and other public figures in the area of performance anxiety and stage fright reduction. He has lectured at Yale and is presently a Special Faculty member at Juilliard and currently teaches a monologue classes at NYU/Tisch School of the Arts.