Cor blimey
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I have to agree with one of the other reviewers that they wonder how it is to be used. I am a North Yorkshire lad and whilst I can hear how some words should be pronounced and read the short sentences from the book it still does not help in repect to all words and how one would hold a conversation in Cockney fully. I am not sure though how it could be altered to make it so and possibly what we have is acceptable and one just has to listen to Cockneys and hope in time one picks it up.
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Unhelpful and confusing
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It is hard to understand how this course is to be used: Apparently, it is a recording of a training session with an established actor, which is quite interesting to listen to. However, it is unclear what one is expected to do, in order to approximate the accent short of listening in. There is an accompanying booklet, which contains transcripts of some texts used but is just as confusing as the CD itself. In addition, I am not sure that a non-native speaker would benefit from this.
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A great resource for Actors
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Penny is an internationally acclaimed dialect coach who is well known for her work in both theatre and film. Recently she coached Helen Mirren in `The Queen' and Cate Blanchett in `Elizabeth: The Golden Years'. These CDs are different to most accent tapes available, as they use a variety of methods to help the actor. In an unusual and interesting format, Penny sets the scene for each accent by using historical and geographical references, anecdotes and imagery.
Working with a different well-known actor on each CD, Penny conducts a master class, where you are able to listen in on the actor voicing all the doubts and queries that anyone approaching the accent would be likely to share.
The CD is also full of many sizeable chunks of native speakers of varying ages and types and each recording is discussed by Penny and the actor. Key areas are pointed out and explored and the accent broken down into its components. Throughout the session, Penny herself slips in and out of the accent with pitch-perfect accuracy. Thus, you are immersed in the accent for the full hour of the CD.
Finally there are practice exercises and an accompanying booklet with full phonetic breakdown of the sounds.
These CDs are a wonderful resource for actors and voice trainers as well as being of interest to anyone who enjoys hearing the wide range of accents and rhythms still alive in our country.
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