In the first page of Nick Drnaso's "Acting Class," two members of an acting class volunteer for an activity.

In the second page of Nick Drnaso's "Acting Class," Thomas reacts angrily to the news that he has been laid off in acting simulation

In the third page of Nick Drnaso's "Acting Class," Thomas reveals that was in fact replicating his own emotional reaction to having been laid off

In the fourth page of Nick Drnaso's "Acting Class," Thomas and Danielle begin their acting simulation anew

In the fifth page of Nick Drnaso's "Acting Class," Thomas reenacts how he actually reacted upon learning that he had been laid off

In the final page of Nick Drnaso's "Acting Class," Thomas and Danielle's classmates clap for their performance

Read an <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/books/archive/1857/11/nick-drnaso-acting-class-short-story-interivew/670973">interview</a> with Nick Drnaso about his writing process.

A comic panel depicts two characters having a difficult conversation across a desk.

Nick Drnaso: ‘Acting Class,’ a Short Story

“It may seem like we’re moving along unreasonably fast, but I don’t believe in building up a lot of suspense around performing. I’ve found it’s better to jump in awkwardly and work it out as we go.” Read a new short story from Nick Drnaso:

Sections

The Print Edition

Acting Class