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> How to Select a Good Monologue
How to Select a Good Monologue
There is not one particular monologue that is
best for everyone – besides, casting directors would get terribly
sick of hearing the same thing, over and over again. How many times
could they really listen to “To be or not to be,” anyhow?
Therefore, it is important to choose a monologue that suits you.
You want to choose a monologue that accentuates your best qualities
as an actor. It is a good idea to ask your friends which monologue
they think would be best for you. They know you – it is a
good idea to listen to what they say. Although you may think that
you would make a perfect Hamlet, they may think that you really
ought to be cast as the Woody Allen-type, instead. Your friends
may have certain insight to your acting that you had not thought
of.
It is also important to pick a piece that is age appropriate for
you. Do not go ahead and memorize a piece from the Vagina Monologues
if you are trying out for a junior high Play. Also, if you are in
your late 50’s, it might be a good idea to avoid monologues
that are clearly written for young teenagers (unless you are trying
to make a specific point).
You should also select a monologue that is type appropriate. You
need to decide whether or not you should be doing something dramatic
or comedic. It is good to have both a comedic and a dramatic monologue
under your belt.
How long the monologue is is important, as well. Three minutes
is generally a good length for a monologue.
Make sure that you choose a monologue that you connect to as a
person – make sure that you choose a monologue in which you
understand the character and how she/he is feeling. You will not
be able to accurately portray a character if you do not understand
why she/he acts a certain way in a certain circumstance.
Also, make sure that you pick a monologue that you can have fun
with – it will be obvious if you are hating the monologue
that you have chosen.
Think of characters in movies that you think you would be appropriate
it. Also, try to find a movie that is less well known to find a
monologue. You want some fresh, exciting, new material to work with.
Once you have chosen a monologue, practice it, and then practice
it some more. Ask for your friends’ advice again. Perform
it in front of friends and in front of the mirror. Make sure that
you have your monologue down and good.
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