Thursday, September 5, 2013

MONOLOGUE - WHAT IS IT? HOW TO WRITE A MONOLOGUE.

THE CHARACTER SPEAKS

A monologue is like a play, except there is only one character doing the talking and acting. Sometimes, this main character talks directly to the audience; at other times, the character is really talking to themselves -- and the audience just happens to overhear.

A monologue focuses on a character's feelings, thoughts and attitudes about events.

The monologue gives a character the opportunity to tell a story, to explain or describe events from their personal point of view. Like all stories, a monologue must have:


  • an interesting INTRODUCTION that includes a brief 'orientation' statement that introduces the characters involved, and the time and place in which the story is set (sets the scene). The introduction should hint at the problems or dilemmas to come.
  • a build-up of tension in the BODY, as the character explains and explores the problems and how these were overcome.
  • a CONCLUSION  that explores how the character intends to solve the dilemma, and/or what action will occur next.
WRITING A MONOLOGUE

Don't use direct speech. You simply write the character's name and then follow that with what the character says. Any stage directions are given in brackets and italicised. 

PERFORMING A MONOLOGUE

When performing a monologue on stage or before a class, it's important to remember that you're on your own -- you are completely responsible for maintaining your audience's interest. Some things to think about:

  • create an effective opening
  • use gestures and body language to communicate the emotion behind the words
  • vary your volume and tone of voice
  • move around in the performance space (unless your character is bedridden or for some reason sitting still)
  • ensure your voice can be heard at all times -- no good whispering if no one can hear you
  • use simple props - a lit candle, a hat, a tie, something to indicate a certain kind of character
EXAMPLES OF MONOLOGUES FOR TEENS



What is the difference between a monologue and a soliloquy?

In origin, the words are doublets: Greek monologue and Latin soliloquy both mean 'single speech'. But they are now distinguished in performances with monologueas a speech made by one person in the company of others while a soliloquy is spoken by one person who is alone. A monologue is a long speech delivered by one person who forgets or neglects the others who are there, with an example being "The Vagina Monologues." Hamlet's "To be or not to be" is a great example of a soliloquy. We also think of monologue in the context of late-night talk shows or comedy clubs where the host or performer does a stand-up comedy routine.



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