The play's the thing -- and who hasn't imagined treading the boards, whether in a school or community production or even -- oh, dream of dreams! -- picking up stakes and moving to Hollywood or New York or Chicago to give it a go as a professional actor? Are actors born or made? How hard is it to get involved with summer -stock theater? Would acting lessons be fun for my children -- or me? Can stage fright be cured?CIG to Acting is a fascinating, lighthearted look at the art and craft of acting that guides readers from the initial bite of the acting bug to honing skills, auditioning, rehearsals, all the way to opening night -- and possibly beyond. -- How Not to be a stage mother or father when your child gets a role in the camp extravaganza -- Balancing theatrics with school and other extracurricular activities -- Why singing and voice lessons are so important, even for drama kings and queens -- Audition etiquette -- no copping attitudes, please, and Always say "Thank you for seeing me". -- Rehearsal rigors -- from read- throughs and blocking to taking direction gracefully and dealing with backstage gossip -- Being creative with costumes and makeup -- What about turning pro -- local opportunities or the Great White Way?