Choosing a Monolgue Part 2. Why an Active Monologue?

Why an Active Monologue?

Simply put and active monologue has an active objective. You -the character -want something right now. This means that -right now- you are pursuing an objective, varying your tactics and hopefully your stakes are high. That is what you want to show an auditor. You know how to make e a choice, you know how to go after it. Hopefully you know more than one way to pursue what you want. If it’s a good monologue it may have more than one objective and it DEFINILTY has more than one tactic.

I only recommend using a memory monologue when you are auditioning for a play that uses memory storytelling as the main modality. i.e. The Exonerated, Juvie, Runawys, A Chorus Line, The Weir, Still Life etc. The objectives in story monologues are not always clear, they are more about telling a story and sometimes you reveal your main intent at the end of the monologue. Memory monologues can also become self-indulgent – but let’s save that for another post!

This doesn’t mean M&Ms don’t elicit emotions. They are often entertaining and moving. Paul’s monologue in A Chorus Line is one of the most powerful moments of theatre I’ve experienced. Ruined has several memory storytelling moments that brought me to tears. In my opinion they are better suited for performance, not for auditioning.

Choosing a Monologue Part 1 -Active vs. Memory

Choosing a Monologue Part 1

If you don’t have one already now is the time to get a three ring binder. Start Building Your Audition Book.

The audition determines the type of monologue and the length. Read the requirements and follow them! If it says prepare a 2 minute monologue don’t walk in with a 2 minute and 15 second monologue. If they ask for comic piece don’t walk in with a dramatic one. If they ask for a Modern piece don’t bring in Shakespeare. But...."Let's start at the very beginning..."

I give examples of published work below. I have not included the entire text but I have provided enough information for you to find the text if you so desire.

Find an Active Monologue – this means a monologue that happens in the now not a Memory Monologue. A Memory Monologue (or M&M) is when you are telling a story, something that happened in the past.

Examples:

An M&M might start something like this:

When I was a little girl I went into the abandoned coal mine. At first everything was fine but then I went deeper and there was a big bang. Everything came tumbling down…

Below is a couple of lines from The play “Lardo Weeping” by Terry Galloway

Dinah has a monologue that begins:

“There was only one time in my life…. –and ends- …..just not quite ruthless.

This is an M&M

An Active Monologue (AM) might start something like this:

I don’t understand you. I give and I give but you know what, I’m through giving. Get out. Right now! Go into the bedroom, pack your bags and get out! No – don’t talk. You know why? Because I’m through listening!

Below is a couple of lines from The play “Four Corners” by Wendkos and Bond

The character Jimmy has a monologue that begins:

Look, you know how dogs begin to look like their owners….. -and ends - ….couldn’t I turn into her?

This is an AM.