I know it’s college audition season when I hear my students share their lists of monologues with all their acting buddies. They are looking for that perfect monologue and it is hard for young actors to feel confident with their choices—even when they get it just right. Here are some tips to choosing a monologue that will be just right for you when you audition for college, high school, or any general theater audition.
The “A” in acting is for active. Storytelling in a narrative monologue can be a real snooze! Avoid that with something active, not passive. Acting happens when you try to get what you want so literally ask yourself: What am I doing to get what I want? All the non-verbal communication in a character that is falling apart or falling in love or having a nervous breakdown gives a monologue life beyond the words. You cannot communicate all that emotion if you are simply focusing on the words.
Be a smart risk-taker. Stay away from profanity, nudity, or sexually charged material. It is not impressive and can be offensive. Follow the lead of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and “Rent.” If they can make a school version without profanity, so should you when
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