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 Throughout “Break-a-Leg,” Lise Friedman includes viewing recommendations for youngsters. In the chapter that deals with the human voice and dialects, Friedman lists no less than twenty classic films available on dvd. The lists include films made during the period of the late 40’s to the early 21st Century. Those films include Meryl Streep’s performances in Sophie’s Choice and Out of Africa. Friedman supplies a lengthy list of Broadway musicals available on film in the chapter devoted to physicality. Those films are as varied as A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum to Meet Me in St. Louis. These listings introduce children to many different theatrical styles and performers.
If the first five chapters give students an introduction of basic acting technique, the last five chapters introduce kids to preparing for a role, the rehearsal process, as well as what goes on behind the scenes. These chapters will also give children understanding of common terminology used in theater.
While Friedman’s “Break-a-Leg” does not include a section pertaining to theater history, the author does devote six pages to William Shakespeare. As in most sections of her book, Friedman provides a listing of Shakespeare’s comedies, tragedies and histories that are available on film. She includes in the listing, Shakespeare in Love, a hugely commercial and award winning film that provides an entertaining, imaginative and funny look at Elizabethan England! Note: This film may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
Perhaps what sets Friedman’s book apart from others in this genre is the inclusion of a chapter devoted to acting in film. Topics include panning, zooming, close-ups, and more. Friedman takes time to recognize some of the basic differences between performing on stage and performing in front of a camera. As she does throughout the book, Friedman gives additional information pertaining to young actors when she addresses the legal time limits a minor may appear on set and a youngsters right to attend school while performing.
Closing this chapter, Friedman offers a selection of movie favorites gleaned from kids. The listing is categorized by comedy, drama, as well as films that have won kudos for technical effects.
Dennis L. Foreman
Lise Friedman Titles |