Description
As an actor, what is the optimal way to engage your audience?
Don’t act!
When you’re interpreting a scene, be it on stage or camera, the words you say are secondary. It’s the mood, the feel, the underlying emotion that will truly connect you with your audience. And that’s all conveyed in the eyes.
In this fascinating book, Peter Wooldridge draws on decades of experience as a casting director and acting coach to some of Wales’s most successful actors, blending personal stories and observations with often-overlooked but essential techniques. All in the Eyes will equip you with the skills you need to involve your audience in your performance, to invite them to live it with you and through you. But what really makes this book remarkable is the wealth of complementary short scenes for you to interpret and practise, honing those skills with every take.
Without intrigue – the invisible thread between actor and audience – there is no drama. So let your audience sense your meaning from what you don’t say. Remember, they will want what they don’t expect, so let them do the acting.
There is no right or wrong, only good and bad acting. With All in the Eyes in your toolkit, you can gain the confidence to land on the side of good, every time
Endorsements
‘As a young actor I attended Peter’s acting workshops, and it’s no exaggeration that his mantra became foundational to how I approach my work: “I don’t want you to act”. This book feels like being back in the room with him, learning to trust the camera, to honour the silences, to let honesty do the work. I’m thrilled even more people will finally get to learn from him now through this essential guide to truthful acting. A fantastic read.’—Gerran Howell, actor
Gerran plays Dr Dennis Whitaker in the award-winning medical drama The Pitt.
‘Peter Wooldridge delivers a practical, playable manual on the art of connection in acting — to your scene partner, the moment, and the audience. Rooted in years of experience, this is a singular hands-on guide to truthful performance that begins, and lives, “in the eyes”. I wish this had been available when I was starting my career as an actor!’—Owain Yeoman, actor.
Owain Yeoman plays CSI agent Wayne Rigby in The Mentalist.
‘As an actor, I’ve often been told I “speak through my eyes”, a skill I trace directly back to years of acting classes with Pete. I owe so much of my craft to him. He doesn’t just teach technique; he nurtures truth, and this book captures that same magic. It offers practical tools and clarity for anyone who wants to become an actor.’—Banita Sandhu, actor
Banita Sandhu is known for her debut film October and the Netflix Regency romance series Bridgerton.
‘An unpretentious, down-to-earth read that demystifies the art of acting. It provides valuable insight for actors and coaches alike, using effective, tried and tested methods.’ —Jane Davies, acting coach
"The Workshop was where I started, and it really gave me the confidence to do things. I was a really quiet kid when I started and The Workshop really helped me come out of my shell. It got me the most important audition of my life. Without that, I wouldn't be doing what I'm doing."
- CRAIG ROBERTS
Start training with us today
Thinking about some camera training to work on your presence and expression skills? Book a place on our intensive short course summer school in Cardiff Bay, Wales, ideal for young actors at every level. Call us on 029 2049 3950 to book.