Learn how to perform a monologue better with these 4 easy steps.
If a talent agent or casting director is interested in you, he or she may ask you to perform a monologue or give you a script to see how well you can act, using a script or a piece of material that you’ve never seen before.
But, it is important to note that if a talent agent or casting director does not ask you to do a monologue, don’t ask to do one. The agent may not be interested in seeing how you perform a monologue. Or, they are interested in only seeing how you look in person and don’t have the time to see your monologue. Either way, it is not crucial to say a monologue for a casting director or talent agent, instead only do it unless they request it. You will only look desperate if you tried.
If you get a chance to perform a monologue or do a cold reading expect the talent agent or casting director to critique your performance. This is a good opportunity to be open to constructive criticism and don’t be defensive. Listen carefully and note any problems the casting director or talent agent tells you. Remember, one casting director may love the way you act while another may say you don’t have what it takes to make it in the entertainment and film industry. At the end of the day don’t take any piece of criticism too seriously.
Here are a few tips you can use to improve your monologue.
1. How to perform
It is perfectly fine to stand or sit for your monologue. It all depends on your particular monologue. However, never touch the agent, casting director, or use anything in the office as a prop.
2. Don’t worry too much about the actions
If the monologue requires you to throw an object across the room, or slam a door, just act out the emotions without actually performing the action. It would not be in your best interest to throw the casting director’s cell phone across the room.
3. Don’t over do it.
When you are performing a monologue for a talent agent or casting director you may feel the need to go overboard in your audition with an extremely dramatic scene. However, you want to appear as a professional actor, not a pyscho who needs counseling, therapy, and possible time in a mental asylum.
4. Pay attention
During your monologue, the casting director or talent agent may take a phone call or respond to an email. Make sure you pay attention and eavesdrop to try to figure how this particular casting director works. If the casting director is constantly getting phone calls from major movie studios, you will get a good idea of how powerful this casting director is. The same applies for a talent agency. If the talent agent is constantly getting calls from attorneys, clients wondering when they will get paid, or bill collectors, then it is in your best interest to find another agent.
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