Select one of the ''neutral'' monologues below.
You will then either:
Create a character of your own invention using the Character Development Task Booklet. Make the character a person you can commit to portraying, a person you can respect in your portrayal.
OR
Do an original interpretation of a character you already know and love, eg. Alice from Alice in Wonderland. You will have to be creative about how this monologue fits into their life/story, eg. does this happen before/after the stories you already know about them. Still complete the Character Development Task Booklet to help you understand this character more deeply.
The booklet will help create your character's personal history and give you inspiration for how to use your expressive skils.
2. After you have completed the booklet, and you know your character's motivation, you can ACTION THE TEXT, using the Actioning Sheet to guide you. Remember, the point of actioning the text is to help physicalise how your character is trying to get what they want (and will also help you vary your vocal tone).
3. In the booklet, you should have decided WHERE YOU ARE, so now create a set. What furniture or props do you need? You need to be doing an activity, eg. in the middle of writing a letter, chopping carrots, drinking tea. The quality of your gestures and movement while you do this activity, and when you stop and start, will also help communicate your character's motivations and emotions.
4. Consider your gaze. Who are you talking to? Where are they? Do they move? Choose a place in the actual theatre to look at (that represents them) to help you focus.
5. Rehearse with someone watching!
Yes you need to learn your lines.
