Friday, February 28, 2014

The Monologue Prepared. For the Ready Actor.

If you are a serious actor, you should be ready at any moment to present your skills.  Treat life like an impending audition. 


Naturally, having a clean and dynamic monologue or two handy is always a good idea. If you are able to perform on demand, you will have an added chance to show potential roles your strengths. If the piece is well prepared, appropriate, and exciting, it will give people additional information about you, as well as the confidence to possibly sign you for a role. 


Preparing a fantastic monologue isn’t all that different from preparing a great audition.  But, because it’s only you in the spot light, there are particular things you'll want to prepare for and pay special attention to. Whether you’re getting ready to wow an agent or casting director for stage or film, here are some simple things to remember when preparing your winning monologue.


1. Aim high. 
This is the situation where you are solely responsible for moving the action forward. Your motivation needs to provide you with the energy to deliver the piece with passion knowing you don't have the help of another character.  If you aren't aiming high enough, your piece will lose focus and drag. Be careful not to cookie cutter an act that *seems* urgent—it needs have an intention that has true meaning for you and gets you showing emotion quickly. This is no time to play it small, go for something that really gets you involved and communicating.


2. Know your crowd. 
Remember not to just speak a series of words into the air. The point of view is only understood when the actor knows who they themselves are talking to. Establishing who you're talking to and the feelings you have about that person in a personal and specific way keeps you connected you to the piece and the observer. 


3. Keep it short, Keep it simple. 
Keep your monologue at around a minute long unless you've been instructed otherwise, especially if you’re going to use it to audition for an agent or casting director. These professionals are used to seeing auditions on reels in short bursts.  If you’re performing it for stage or in a workshop keeping it short is still a good idea, as your monologue will have more of an effect and you’ll show what you can do with your skill and confidence to deliver in a shorter time frame.


Remember these tips when preparing your next monologue for an audition and you are sure to impress everyone in the room.


You know your talents and the dream to act is on the forefront of your mind.  Why not learn even more at the New York Acting School for Film and Television and get the momentum in your career you've been longing for?




by: Navae Fiona


No comments:

Post a Comment