What are some things I should look for, when picking an audition monologue?

Answer 1

When picking an audition monologue, look for a piece that feels natural to you and fits your age range and energy. It should show emotion and storytelling without being overly dramatic or complicated. Choose something you understand well and can connect to honestly. It’s usually better to do a simple monologue confidently than a flashy one that doesn’t feel like you.

One big tip is to avoid monologues that lean too hard into a “sassy” or "bratty" character (i.e., Sally or Lucy from Charlie Brown), since those are very common choices. From my own MT director experience, casting teams see those a lot and already know most kids can play them. What really stands out is choosing a character that pushes you a little outside yourself and shows commitment and range.

Answer 2

A quality audition monologue needs to be ACTIVE, have a CLEAR OBJECTIVE, and their should be CHANGE. The character should be in a different place when the monologue is complete then when they were when they started the monologue. That change is dependent upon wether they achieve their objective or not. Keep in mind a character does NOT always need to achieve their objective - in fact some of the most interesting pieces are the one where the character does not get what they want. Also, depending on the audition requirements it may need to be a certain length and or written before or after a certain period of time. If you are auditioning professionally you should pick characters that are within your age range.

Answer 3

Monologues are your chance to show off your skills. To do this, you want a monologue that makes you look good! Here are some things I always recommend:

1.- It needs to be active.

This means your character needs something from the other person, and is fighting to get what they want. You should stay away from story monologues (once upon a time..., I remember the day when....). Ask yourself, do I want something from the other person, and am I actively trying to get it?

2.- It needs an arch.

Your character should go through transitions. If they start the monologue angry, and they finish angry, you only got to show off one thing! Look for monologues where your character shifts, so you can show emotional depth.

3.- Pick a monologue that shows your strengths.

If you have any skills, this is the time to use them! Are you bilingual? Are you really good at comedy? Can you do accents? See if you can incorporate your strengths into your audition monologue.

4.- Don't do popular monologues.

If someone very famous did this monologue very well, your audience is going to be thinking about that person instead - and so are you! You want to be able to make it your own.

5.- Pick a monologue that you like!

This sounds simple but it's true! If you're passionate about your monologue, it will show.