THE RIGHT
MONOLOGUE
Understand your strengths and learn to harness them effectively. Can you convincingly embody the character, regardless of their age or circumstances? Reflect on your ability to convey authenticity in the monologue—how can you achieve this convincingly? Consider whether adapting the character's age to align with your own or modifying the context to make it a standalone piece could elevate your performance.
HAVE A JOURNEY
Capturing your character’s journey is vital. Whether the monologue moves from joy to sorrow or shifts subtly in the middle, your character must begin in one emotional place and end in another. Even the smallest change can leave a powerful impression, revealing an evolution in their state of mind. Reflect on why your character feels compelled to speak and what might happen if they stopped. Every word in the text has a purpose—your job is to discover and bring it to life.
CONTRAST
When submitting multiple tapes, ensure there is clear contrast between each one. Demonstrate the breadth of your acting abilities by showcasing different facets of your range. Be detailed in your approach to each piece, but always ensure that every tape offers something unique, highlighting the diversity of your skills.
HOMEWORK
In a fast-paced audition, it’s crucial to complete all necessary tasks with precision. Acting demands both careful effort and the ability to make it appear effortless. Consider your objectives and the challenges you may face. What do you want from the person you're speaking to? How would you express yourself if certain words were unavailable to you? Also, think about your environment—your mindset in a library would differ greatly from a conversation in your bedroom. Pay attention to the details of your surroundings, the stakes of the situation, and the evolution of your character and thoughts.
DETAIL OF
THOUGHT
Dive deeply into the reasons behind each line, exploring the shifts in thoughts and motivations that drive the character to speak. Uncover the underlying meanings and the intricate connections between lines. Consider your character's objectives—what are they striving for in each moment? Reflect on the stakes: what might happen if the other character stopped listening or engaging? This depth of analysis will bring richness and authenticity to your performance.
TALK TO SOMEONE
Knowing who you’re speaking to is essential, including their relationship to you and the specifics of their personality, actions, age, and emotional state. Consider the dynamics of your interaction—what connects you to them, and how does their mood influence your delivery? Even in a Shakespearean soliloquy, your character builds a relationship with the audience. Decide whether you want them on your side or to challenge your perspective, shaping the way you connect and communicate.
Enjoy the text or task and allow yourself to experiment with different approaches—you never know what new discoveries might arise. After preparing thoroughly, try performing the monologue in various scenarios, like a first date or a boxing match. Through playful exploration, you’ll uncover fresh insights and unexpected revelations that can deepen your understanding of the material.
ATTENTION TO REQUEST
Take the time to thoroughly review and follow the application guidelines. Every detail requested has a purpose, and missing any information can cause delays. Working together efficiently ensures a smoother process for everyone involved.
ACTING IS REACTING
Genuine responses are key to a compelling performance. Before you speak, fully understand and internalize what has just happened—what did the other person say or do to trigger your thoughts and drive you to respond? Pay close attention to their actions and reactions while you’re speaking, as these inform your next move. Consider how their behavior shapes your delivery and guides your next line. Remember, your reactions are not limited to their words—unspoken cues and silences can be just as powerful.
SHORT AND SWEET
When submitting a monologue or duologue, aim for brevity and impact. Make every moment count, ensuring the piece includes all the essential elements without overstaying its welcome. Longer submissions risk losing attention, especially without the full context of the play. A concise performance allows your audience to fully engage with the material, capturing everything they need without unnecessary distractions.
SOMETHING NEW
We want to see your personal contribution to the piece, not a replication of what's been done before. How can you set your performance apart? What distinctive element can you bring that will make the audience think, "This interpretation is unlike any other"?
SET UP
Use your phone to record in landscape mode with a simple background. There's no need for an elaborate setup—the focus should be on your performance. Make sure you're well-lit, audible, and clearly visible. A clear background and good lighting, like positioning yourself in front of a window, will help. Frame the shot in landscape mode with a mid-shot, capturing from your shoulders to your head, ensuring you're both seen and heard clearly.