“The Stage Actor’s Handbook is essential in the toolkit of the professional theater actor. What a gift to young artists and educators to have a source that shares the unique legacy of decades of traditions, protocols, superstitions and etiquette within the theatre community. It is especially delicious to read about the origins of many of our rituals that have been passed down from generation to generation. I started working professionally at the age of 14 and come from a long line of theatre practitioners. Now as an educator I can’t wait to share this joyful, valuable journey with my students that will take them deep into the lore and history of our culture and the magic of our sacred community.”  

—Kaitlin Hopkins, Head of Musical Theatre, Texas State University

“I think The Stage Actor’s Handbook will live long past all who wrote it, participated in it and inspired it. Full of wisdom, wit and love, that is exactly as it should be. Bravo!” 

—Ken Page

“While theatre has incredibly specific codes of conduct, this is the only book I know of dedicated to helping actors find their footing. Kostroff and Garnyé have pulled together scads of useful information, shedding light on our often practical, sometimes charming, and occasionally bizarre theatrical traditions.”

—Jackie Apodaca

Professor of Theatre and Head of Performance, Southern Oregon University

Artistic Director, Ashland New Plays Festival

A much-needed deep dive into an aspect of theatre education that is crucial but often glossed-over:  professionalism. The Stage Actor’s Handbook should be required reading for every serious theatre student.

—Larry Sousa

Director/Choreographer, theatre professor at The Boston Conservatory at Berklee

“Honestly, this book should be required reading by anyone joining the union or anyone who even thinks of acting as a profession.”

—Peter Van Norden, actor.

“Practical and lovely and such a wonderful overview of the traditions!”

—Rachel Flynn, director