How to Avoid Reading Monologues in Auditions

Many acting auditions require you to read a monologue, either from memory, or from the script of the play, musical or film. If you have difficulty with monologues, here are a few simple steps you can take to try and avoid them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Communicate with the director or casting director. First, find out what you will be asked to do at the audition. For many auditions, no preparation is required and actors will be asked to read from a script or participate in improvisational scenes. If the director indicates you should prepare a monologue, then it will be a requirement.

2. Ask nicely. If you really do not want to read a monologue, ask the director if it would instead be possible to prepare a short scene with an acting partner. Tell him or her that you want to show your talent in the best possible light, which would be best accomplished with a scene.

3. Don't push your agenda; be prepared. As an actor, you need the job more than the director needs you. If reading a monologue is going to be a part of an audition, and you aren't able to arrange for something else, the best thing to do is to prepare one very carefully, and perform it to the best of your abilities.

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