Should Actors Write Their Own Monologue?
I have given many private online mentoring sessions and the question that I frequently get is “Should they write my own monologue?”
It is true, you want and need to be able to connect with your monologue, so writing from you personal experiences can be extremely helpful.
You Probably Should Not Write Your Monologue
Here is the problem that happens when most actors write their own monologue. You need to be a great writer. Actors need to understand how to carefully craft the perfect words into a 1 or possibly 2 minute piece. There has to be an interesting story, emotional change in the character to show a shift in the character and an ending that keeps those watching wanting more.
An actors monologue has to be truthful. I don’t mean the facts are accurate, but that it sounds real. The situation is believable. I once heard an 11 year old do a monologue about how her husband left her with 2 kids in the house. This was so silly. No one would even pay attention to her performance. The situation was so unbelievable that it was impossible to watch her performance. This was an incredibly poor choice of material.
Find a monologue that is right for you. One that allows you to feel, and relate to the character.
Don’t Pick a Monologue Taken From a Popular Film or TV Show
When an actor chooses a piece that was performed by a well known actor, everyone will compare your performance. Just like with singing, it can be very tricky to choose a song that was recorded by a famous singer. Unless, you bringing something very new and different to the performance, it is better to find another monologue.
Find one that is less well known. This will allow you to bring more of your personality and ideas to the character without being compared to anyone else.
Last Words
Find a monologue that is age appropriate, one that makes sense for you to read, and most importantly, don’t copy any other actor’s read. Make it your own.
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Another Great Video For You to Watch
Never End Your Audition on the Last Word
In this video, you will learn why you should never end
your audition on the last word. And, the best way to begin
and your audition.
https://howtoactandmodel.com/never-end-your-audition-with-the-last-word/
If you have any questions you want me to answer just email them to me.
Talk soon.
Aaron
About the Author: Aaron Marcus
Aaron Marcus has been a full-time actor and commercial model for over 36 years.
His new book, How to Become a Successful Actor and Model is an Amazon Best Seller.
Aaron has given his seminar: "Book the Job" over 800 times spanning 3 continents.
He also offers online workshops.
Aaron saves 5 days each month to give private on-line coaching sessions.
Subscribe to his Acting and Modeling Quick Tips Channel and have free access to 270 + videos <ahttps://www.youtube.com/c/aaronmarcusactingandmodelingquicktips?sub_confirmation=1.