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Actors' Guidelines
THE TRYOUTS PROJECT
How to shoot monologues for 'The Tryouts'?
Simply, by using your phone or a camera.
Remember, it’s not easy to keep a steady hand when filming. Try to set your phone up against something, on a table or a shelf or a chair. Monologues are uploaded into a software that merges and edits files to unify texture and sound. So just make sure your footage isn't jerky.
Each monologue should be 50-60 seconds long. You can submit as many monologues as you can, to allow viewers to get to know your creative personality. We will pick and edit the best ones.
Creating monologue magic
You are likely to be nervous and a little anxious. That’s great – that means you care! So instead of giving in to your fears, overcome them and use them to fuel you. Use the nervous energy to power your performance.
Don't get hung up on the mistakes. Whatever you end up doing, do it to its fullness by dedicating yourself to your choices.
Feeling stuck?
There’s an easy way for getting your creativity unstuck. Simply answer one of the following questions for your monologue. Feel free to make creative decisions, and communicate your emotions or ideas.
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What did you do today?
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Is there a secret you've never told anyone?
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How would you describe your mood, and how connected do you feel to the people around you?
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What's the longest you've been in a relationship, and do you believe in the institution of marriage?
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Do you believe in any conspiracy theories?
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What's your opinion on modern art?
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How important is sex in a relationship, and what are your feelings on sexual exclusivity and monogamy?
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How long should you wait to have sex with someone new?
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What are your thoughts about casual sex with no strings attached?
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What was it like growing up in your family, and what influence do you think it had on your life?
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What do you love about yourself, what do you hate about yourself, and what would it take to make you feel happier, more content?
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What line should someone never cross with you, and what happens when somebody does?
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What is a relationship deal breaker for you?
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What is your current stance on having children?
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Where would you like to see yourself in 5-year’s time?
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Do you think there’s a key to solving life’s problems?
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At a party, where can someone find you?
Useful tips
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Do not repeat the question.
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Tell the first story that comes to mind. As you are relating the story, you will find that your mind will come up with the answer you've been looking for.
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I'm sure you've seen politicians who, when asked a tough question, defer to something else and completely obfuscate the answer. Then in the last sentence or two they answer the question very tersely and to the point. That’s another way to go about it.
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Speak Your Truth, Find Your Style, Don’t Give Up!
By the way, is there something you've read or heard somewhere that really speaks to you? - Why not go with that? – You're bound to deliver it with meaning.
If you’re a writer, you can use something you’ve written yourself, or... you can simply speak off the cuff.
Whatever you do, try to aim at a three-dimensional character. As you prepare, think about yourself (or your alternative self) and what he or she wants. There might be a certain voice that fits them. Consider the posture, body language and gestures they might use when speaking. Keep that goal or desire in your head at all times. It will keep you focused.
Final thoughts
I want you to find your creative voice, so don’t allow fear to stop you from sharing it. It’s needed and important, and it’s more than an artistic adventure. It can also be a way of validating your own unique presence. So you can disregard the technical, and focus solely on the creative. I bet you have a lot to offer!
Monologue examples: