“Perhaps it is Michael Chekhov who has left us with the most personal and most unselfconscious ways of tapping into the imaginative layers of the actor’s psyche, freeing him from the constrictions of the intellect. Chekhov’s perceptions have come into focus as never before. These DVDs, with their talented teachers and responsive, inquisitive students are an immeasurably creative tool for teaching and learning, getting closer to the actor’s art and serving as a legacy for the seminal work of Michael Chekhov.”
~ Zelda Fichandler, Chair, Graduate Acting, NYU, Tisch School of the Arts:

“The DVDs provide a practical and step-by-step introduction to Michael Chekhov’s excellent approach to acting for the stage. Five gifted instructors bring their personal expertise and in-depth understanding of the work in a friendly and supportive environment.” ~ Anne Bogart

"Every theatre person knows all about Stanislavski. They should know Michael Chekhov just as well, but they don't. His work is all about helping actors find the abundant treasure hidden in themselves and learn how to bring it to the theatre with them. These recorded classes give all of us access to his wonderful insights. Like his teaching, they're an inviting exhortation to act in our own unique, eccentric, voice. The only sad part is that they didn't come out sooner." ~ Sam Waterston

"The time is ripe for the release of these wonderful and illuminating DVDs. A necessary compliment to what has come to us of Stanislavsky's work, the Michael Chekhov Technique aims to release untapped powers and sensibilities and enable the actor to find that truth can have size and scope. Joanna Merlin and company have carried forward the work of this master teacher and actor with clarity and joy .. In addition to successfully conveying concepts and techniques, these DVDs radiate with artistry and humanity. I felt taken into the work as if I were in the rehearsal hall myself." ~ Richard Feldman, Acting Faculty, Juilliard School

"Years ago, when I read Chekhov’s book TO THE ACTOR, I found his theories fascinating and provocative. Yet I couldn’t quite grasp the exercises on the page, perhaps because the techniques he evolved must be experienced to be fully understood. This remarkable DVD series solves that problem. The sequence of lessons, taught by master teachers of his psychophysical techniques, illuminates the body of Chekhov’s work and offers hands on, in-depth, and inspiring instruction in each of the aspects of his method. Viewers can experiment with the work as they watch these DVDs, much like exercise videos, and thus begin to see and feel for themselves how this “method of experience” integrates the body, mind, imagination and emotional life of the actor. The series is a revelation in actor training and a remarkable teaching aid." ~ Melissa Smith