Monologue tips

A well-written monologue makes them remember you.
Good audition monologues will:
1. Be less than two minutes.Two minutes is more than enoughto show your stuff. In fact, the auditors have already made their decision after 30 seconds, maybe even less.
2. Have a clear objective.You can't just stand there and talk. You have to be actively talking to someone you've imagined, and you must be trying toget somethingfrom them.
3. Have a distinct beginning, middle, and end.
A beginning: A strong first sentence to capture attention.
A middle: Lots ofjuicy content.
An end: A strong finish. When your monologue has structure, the auditors are more likely to remember you.
4. Contain conflict.Drama cannot exist without conflict. Who wants to see a play about everyone getting along?

Choosing a Monologue

Actors often get hung up choosing a monologue. But it's verysimple: Pick one you love. If you're going to bring it to life, you must first love it.Also, it's important to choose a few contrasting monologues.
Have at least four monologues ready to go at all times:
• A classical comedic
• A classical dramatic
• A contemporary comedic
• A contemporary dramatic

Many actors stay away from audition monologues that are overdone. They think directors have heard Hamlet too many times before. Don't let this concern you. You bring somethingunique to every character you play.

Play it with truth.

After you decide, read it aloud to yourself. Don't feel any pressure to act. Just listen to the words fall out of you. How do they make you feel? What images come to mind? Maybe you'll want to write down your reactions.