Hi Caitie,

Thank you for your question.

There have been entire books written on the subject of monologues, so I can only scratch the surface here. Also, I’m assuming that the purpose of the monologue is for auditions.

Keep in mind that some (but not all) casting directors don’t approve of actors writing their own monologues for auditions. So in case you’re questioned about it, you may want to use a pseudonym or say that a friend of yours wrote it.

Begin by building your character. Write down a page about the character: How old are they? Where are they from? How do they see the world? What are their dreams and aspirations? How do they relate to other people? And so on. I recommend that you create a character whose life parallels your own, and who has your own accent and uses your everyday speech.

The monologue should tell a story (however, do not write a narrative about a past event. Casting directors want to see you relating to another character - albeit an imagined one – in the present moment). It should have a beginning that immediately draws in the audience, a middle that builds to a climax and an ending that completes the journey.

You may want to create a scene based on a very sad, joyous, embarrassing or funny experience in your past. Or think of someone in the present that you have strong feelings towards and imagine yourself in an encounter with them. What would you like to say to the person that in real life you couldn’t or wouldn’t? Casting directors want to see your range, so there should be contrasting emotions or a turning point within the scene.

I suggest that you improvise the scene with another actor before you write down a word. If it’s based on a real event in your life, don’t be concerned about sticking to the truth. Don’t pre-empt what you’ll say and don’t stop part way through. Just let it come out naturally. Record the scene and transcribe it afterwards.

Then revise and edit the monologue. Ask yourself: What works and what doesn’t work so well? Are there gaps in the story or is there anything that needs cutting? Could anything be said more simply or colourfully? Does the scene make sense with the other character’s lines removed?

Most auditions require monologues that are around two minutes long, but it’s a good idea to have a few versions of different lengths written and rehearsed ready to perform.

Enjoy the process!

Marnie.