Monologue Choices in Auditions: Guidelines and Tips for Actors

When preparing for an audition, one of the most common tasks for actors is to deliver a monologue. However, the source and method of the monologue can significantly impact the casting director's impression. The choice of monologue is crucial, and guidelines should be carefully followed to ensure that the audition is as successful as possible.

Standard vs. Original Monologues

In most cases, actors are expected to perform a monologue from the play or movie they are auditioning for (sometimes referred to as the sides). This allows the casting directors to see how the actor interprets the character within the context of the original material. However, in some auditions, particularly those for specific roles that require a unique interpretation, or when the audition notice explicitly states that original material is acceptable, actors may be encouraged to perform their own monologues.

If you’re considering using your own monologue, it’s essential to check the specific guidelines provided in the audition notice. Although it might seem tempting to showcase your writing abilities, it’s generally safer to stick to the material provided. Casting directors are more interested in seeing an actor’s ability to interpret the given material rather than their writing talents.

Audition Types and Monologue Requirements

Auditions can be of two types: general auditions and specific role auditions.

General Auditions

General auditions usually require the actor to prepare two contrasting monologues, typically a dramatic piece and a comedic piece, each with a time limit of about two to three minutes. These monologues can be selected by the actors themselves. It is not unheard of for actors to write their own pieces, provided it aligns with the required themes and styles, as this can showcase their versatility and unique interpretation skills.

Specific Role Auditions

For specific role auditions, the casting team often provides the actor with a choice of scenes to perform. These scenes are carefully chosen to test the actor's ability to navigate the character's nuances. It doesn’t make sense for an actor to write their own material in these cases, as the goal is to assess how the actor performs the given role rather than their writing skills.

Monologue Selection in Auditions

Monologues are rarely called for in regular auditions. Instead, actors typically perform an extract of the play or film they are auditioning for, as selected by the casting team. This extract is generally sent to the actor in advance, allowing them to prepare. In some well-known plays like Shakespeare's, actors may even be given the entire script and asked to select an extract that interests them.

Unless specified, there is usually no requirement to memorize the extract. Casting teams are more interested in evaluating the actor's suitability for the role, rather than their memory skills. Memorizing lines can turn the audition into a memory test, which is not as beneficial for the actor or the casting team.

British Drama School Auditions

One special type of audition is in British drama schools, where the panel is not assessing suitability for a specific role but rather testing the actor's ability to cope with rigorous actor training. In these auditions, actors are typically expected to perform two monologues with specific criteria. One monologue must be from a post-1950s play, and the other from a classical play, often Shakespeare. Some schools even have a set list of monologues from which the actor must choose. Most drama schools strongly discourage the use of monologues from films and completely prohibit self-penned monologues.

This unique approach to the audition is designed to assess the actor's adaptability, creativity, and ability to perform in different contexts, which are crucial skills for a career in drama school.

Conclusion

Choosing the right monologue for your audition is a critical decision. Whether you are auditioning for a general role or a specific role, it is important to follow the guidelines provided and stick to the material provided. For British drama school auditions, the specific criteria and restrictions are well-defined and must be adhered to. Always research the audition requirements carefully and choose your monologue wisely to maximize your chances of success.