Acting: The Dreaded Monologue Audition
Every actor has one thing in common: auditions. And the least favorite of all can sometimes be the monologue audition. The very nature of doing monologues means that you are alone, which is the antithesis of what most actors love about acting: responding to the other person and creating a relationship.
Monologue auditions don’t have to be your worst nightmare, though. You really can succeed as long as you have a solid acting technique you can use to prepare. When working up a new monologue, make sure you cover these three areas: script analysis, physical preparation, and emotional preparation. All three parts are equally important to creating a well-rounded, fascinating character.
Some general audition tips will really improve your performance, too. Auditions are a beast all their own, so make sure you get the skills you need to succeed. There are some specific audition skills that you might not need in a final performance, but that should definitely be a part of your preparation for auditions.
Most of all, you should have fun with your monologue! It’s important to find not only a technique that works for you, but that you really enjoy. Isn’t that why you got into acting in the first place? You should be able to play and have fun while rehearsing your character. If you haven’t solidified a reliable acting technique that’s a lot of fun, and that you can use on your own (without relying on teachers or directors to coach you), I recommend checking out the “Knock ‘Em Dead” Acting Technique. Google it, pick up a copy, and ace your next monologue audition!
[Keywords: acting, acting technique, monologues, audition tips ]