{"id":2548,"date":"2017-02-17T15:39:20","date_gmt":"2017-02-17T15:39:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/performerstuff.com\/mgs\/?p=2548"},"modified":"2017-10-17T18:01:42","modified_gmt":"2017-10-17T18:01:42","slug":"5-reasons-why-an-actor-should-choose-their-own-monologue","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/performerstuff.com\/mgs\/5-reasons-why-an-actor-should-choose-their-own-monologue\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Reasons Why an Actor Should Choose Their Own Monologue"},"content":{"rendered":"

5 Reasons Why\u00a0an Actor Should Choose Their Own Monologue<\/h3>\n \"\"<\/a><\/span>

Written by\u00a0Tiffany Weagly-Wilkie<\/p>\n

February 16, 2017<\/p>\n<\/font>

<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>

As an acting teacher, the question I get the most from students is, \u201cWill you recommend a monologue<\/strong><\/span><\/a> for me?\u201d My answer is always, \u201cNo.\u201d Why? Below, I answer why finding a monologue for yourself is the most important thing you can do as an actor.<\/p>\n

1. You’ll learn more about yourself.<\/h4>\n
\"\"<\/span><\/div>

To be a better actor, you need to be a better person. To be a better person, you need to know yourself. If someone besides you chooses a monologue for<\/em> you, then you are surrendering the chance to know yourself. Knowing what type of monologue works for you is a vital part of an actor\u2019s journey.<\/p>\n

<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>

2. You’ll have a much better success rate.<\/h4>\n
\"\"<\/span><\/div>

Monologues selected by the performer equate to better performances because the actor is intrinsically connected to the character. When someone else chooses your monologue for you, then they are offering their vision of you. You must learn to know yourself.<\/p>\n

<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>

3. You’ll learn the value of hard work.<\/h4>\n
\"\"<\/span><\/div>

Let’s face it, finding a monologue that works for you isn\u2019t easy. You will have to devote many hours of time to find the right monologue, but that makes it all worth it. Additionally, if you are willing to spend the time searching, you will appreciate the time it takes to earn a role.<\/p>\n

<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>

4. You’ll learn what characters you can play.<\/h4>\n
\"\"<\/span><\/div>

Searching for a monologue will help you discover the characters that work for you. Perhaps you have been relying on a crutch character. Seeking out new monologues will help you break that cycle. It is also important that you have at least three signature monologues that you can do even if you’re falling out of bed.<\/p>\n

<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/div>

5. You’ll have the chance to cast yourself.<\/h4>\n
\"\"<\/span><\/div>

90% of good acting is great casting. Cast right or perish. Think about your monologue search as a chance to cast yourself in the perfect role. During auditions the director spends days, weeks, or even years to find the perfect actor for the role, so you can do the same to find your next audition monologue.<\/p>\n
\r\n

Need some advice? We\u2019ve got you covered.<\/h3>\n