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  • 1.  7-10 minute monologues

    Posted 01-27-2014 13:41
    I have to do a 7-10 minute performance for my theatre class. I can do multiple shorter pieces and they can be from plays books TV scripts etc. Any suggestions would be welcome! ------------------------------------------- Malissa (Maggie) Little ITO Region 3 Representative -------------------------------------------


  • 2.  RE:7-10 minute monologues

    Posted 01-29-2014 16:58
    Hi, Maggie!

    I would take this as a wonderful opportunity to show your range by breaking the 7-10 minutes up into multiple shorter monologues. That being said, the possibilities are endless! However, I would advise you to stay away from TV scripts, as people generally have seen the film you are doing and already have an idea in their head of how the monologue should be said.

    I haven't worked with you, and therefore don't know your acting type, but these are some plays that worked well for me throughout my college career:

    All My Sons by Arthur Miller- Anne has a great confrontation with Kate at the climax of the script! Her objectives are crystal clear! Try piecing together a monologue starting at "I'll do nothing about Joe, but you are going to do something for me"

    Reasons to Be Pretty     by Neil Labute- this has a tendency to be overdone in some college settings BUT for a high school student the role of Stephanie can be very relevant.
    Look for the confrontation at the food court.

    Brilliant Traces     by Cindy Lou Johnson- a favorite of mine! This play has one man and one woman- Rosannah. There are several opportunities for comedic and dramatic monologues in this piece and it's a really great read! Joanne Cusack originated the role many years ago.

    Hurlyburly by David Rabe- this piece can get a little edgy, so you may need to edit it for school purposes- but another really great contemporary play where the objectives are clear and the stakes are high aka the perfect storm for actors!

    As always, it's important to read the play of whatever monologue you choose before you perform so that you have good sense of the character's arc from beginning to end.

    I hope this helps your search! I know how frustrating/exciting/overwhelming monologue hunting can be!

    If you have any other questions, let me know!

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    Chelsey Cavender
    Educational Theatre Association


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  • 3.  RE:7-10 minute monologues

    Posted 01-30-2014 09:42
    Take a look at:
    Mrs. Zero from The Adding Machine by Elmer Rice
    Miss Watsba from The Primary English Class by Israel Horowitz? I think that is the author's name
    perhaps even Sabina from The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder

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    [William] [Myatt] [Drama Director]

    [Pleasant Valley High School]

    [myattw@pleasval.k12.ia.us][563-332-5151][Bettendorf][IA][USA]
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