Whether you’re heading into an audition, putting something on tape, or just keeping your skills sharp, having a solid monologue or scene in your arsenal is essential. So I’m curious, what are your go-to monologues or favorite scenes to pull from when you need something reliable?
One of my personal favorites is Almost, Maine by John Cariani. Back when I was in film school and had to direct actors for class assignments, I always found myself coming back to that play. It’s set in a fictional town in northern Maine called “Almost,” and the entire story unfolds over one magical night under the northern lights. Each vignette explores love: finding it, losing it, or getting a second chance: with a beautiful mix of heart and humor.
Because the play is made up of short scenes between two characters, it was a dream to direct, and a joy to watch performers explore. Some scenes are sweet and whimsical, others are gut-punch emotional, but they’re all so well written and give actors something to play with.
So now I want to hear from you:
What’s a monologue or scene you keep in your back pocket?
Do you have a piece that just fits you? One you always return to? Or maybe one you’ve recently discovered that you love?
Let’s build a little list in the comments: we might even inspire each other to try something new!
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Ashley Renee Smith love this question which I missed seeing earlier so sorry about that. I"m going to check out that play. I"ve used Camille in Pipeline by Dominique Morisseau and Shirley from Shirley Valentine. They both suit as i'm often cast as a mum and offer the opportunity to show range and raw emotion which i like.
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I had a couple when I was in my twenties, that I used again and again. Saint Joan by Bernard Shaw for a dramatic piece and Getting Out by Marsha Norman. Now that I am 49 I cannot use those. I am in the process of reading plays to find some age appropriate ones, though I do have Lady Macbeth and Beatrice and the ready if I need classical pieces. I am going to check out that play Ashley Renee Smith
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Alexandra Stevens, Definitely let me know what you think if you end up reading Almost, Maine! It’s such a gem for scene work and monologues, especially for actors who want to explore nuanced, character-driven moments.
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Suzanne Bronson, Lady Macbeth and Beatrice are iconic, and I’m sure you bring incredible depth to both. Definitely let me know what you think if you dive into Almost, Maine!
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Bumping this back to the top so we can hear from others.
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I began writing with monologues and performing them for No Shame Theatre. Now when I need a monologue, I use one of my own pieces.
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Stephen Olson that's a good idea. Means you have original material which is always refreshing rather than the same old monologues that get used again and again.