Michael Simkins

Following an injury, Simkins is banned from playing cricket for his team for a whole season, and decides to revist the game at all levels to see if he still loves it as he used to.

An amusing trawl around the village cricket and county match scene. He visits the grounds where cricket history has been made, and even plays against Flintoff for a charity match.

He discovers that he still does love the game, and on rejoining the Baldwins cricket team can now look forward to playing and spectating in equal measure.… (mer)

Being one of those people who can never remember names; who is who; or who played what, I never expected to enjoy this book as much as I did and rate it a good 4 stars. I enjoy all things theatrical and read it because the title took my fancy, but also because of a friend who is involved in local theatre stage management, secretly would love to be on stage, and want to understand this desire.

Not only is Michael Simpkins talented as an actor, he is also a talented writer. This is a book full of real information about the world of acting. All the questions a budding young thespian could have are answered in a humorous and accurate way. Each step from which drama school, the do’s and don’ts of auditions, theatrical etiquette, the highs and lows, successes and failures and reaching Hollywood, is covered in a logical progression by Simpkins. I think The Rules of Acting is a real guidance about the industry covering small details that can only be given from the inside. As Simpkins shares the details directly with the reader, I found it a humorous book making me laugh out loud.

If you seriously have a desire to join the industry then you must read this book. It is honest, and encouraging to those wishing to do so.
… (mer)