![]() At the same time, Adler's methodology was defining actor performance as a form of social engagement-rather than just personal expression-welcoming an analysis of onscreen masculinity as culturally fluid. The first chapter explores the popular press's promotion of "Method" stars during the 1950s as an extension of Strasberg's rise in celebrity. The book begins by providing an overview of the gender and racial classifications associated with the male "Method" actor and discussing white maleness in the mid-twentieth century. Through this lens, Beyond Method resituates the performances of some of her famous male students through an expansive understanding of the discourses of acting. Employing archived studio transcripts and recordings, Balcerzak examines Adler's lessons in technique, characterization, and script analysis as they reflect the background of the teacher-illustrating her time studying with Constantin Stanislavski, her Yiddish Theatre upbringing, and her encyclopedic knowledge of drama. In Beyond Method: Stella Adler and the Male Actor, Scott Balcerzak focuses on Adler's teachings and how she challenged Strasberg's psychological focus on the actor's "self" by promoting an empathetic and socially engaged approach to performance. ![]() Stella Adler (1901-92) trained many well-known American actors, yet throughout much of her career her influence was overshadowed by Lee Strasberg, director of the Actors Studio.
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