RICKY JAY QUESTIONS DAVID MAMET

David Mamet is making a one time appearance to promote his new book "Theatre" on Thursday, May 13 at  Largo at the Coronet in Los Angeles. Mamet will be interviewed by Magician & Actor Ricky jay during the event before reading from and signing his book. MetreoBlogs is promoting the event by giving away tickets to people sharing their favorite bits of dialogue from a Mamet movie. What is yours and was it said by RJ? Let us know!

In his book, Mamet likens great theater to a ride together on an elevator, rather than a lecture. The audience is the “habitat” for the play, he contends. Plays need only text and actors. The purpose of drama is to keep them in their seats. Theory has its place, however, great actors become great performing on the stage in front of paying customers. Actors should keep their head up and look into the audience; no one wishes to study one’s forehead. Stand at an angle. Angles are powerful. Relax and refrain from gesturing because when you do, people may just notice. Speak up. As a writer, keep them wondering what happens next. Drama is godless. Drama is about lies. Comedy and tragedy have god-like rules.

Sounds like advice hat could be used by a great many magicians as well!