<p>Hi Guys! So, I'm in the search for finding many monologues for the upcoming year for college auditions. As you all know finding the right monologues is hard! And especially when different schools have different requirements. So anyways, I found a monologue I really like and connect with, but it was published in 1917. I feel the monologue is not a "classic," but it doesn't really meet the requirements for "comtemporary" because of the date it was written. What is everyones feelings on presenting this monologue? What type should it be considered?</p>
<p>It really depends on how it is written. Few schools request classical pieces with the exception of a couple. But from my experience, when they request classical they are usually referring to Moliere or Sheakspeare. I think you can probably get away with performing that piece. But if someone here is more well informed, feel free to correct me :o)</p>
<p>Hi.</p>
<p>I always use this standard...</p>
<p>Before Chekhov (1860-1904) = Classical </p>
<p>I admit is It is rather arbitrary. I use the Chekhov standard, because some school one of my students was auditioning for ( I can't remember which one) used that criteria, and it seemed as good as any other one.</p>
<p>I agree with MTgeek.... if they say classical they probably do mean Shakespeare or Moliere (to use your examples)
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Sometimes they specifically ask for Shakespeare. Sometimes they don't.</p>
<p>If my students are asked to do a classical monologue, and not specifically Shakespeare, I stay away from Shakespeare and go towards Restoration and 18th Century English Monologues.... Sheridan, Wycherley, Gay etc.... They can be quite humorous and a lot of fun to work on.</p>
<p>I even think the Greek Plays are more effective than Shakespeare for young actors. Shakespeare has so many traps for a 17 or 18 year old... </p>
<p>Unless the school specifically asks for Shakespeare... stay away from them.</p>
<p>Of course... that is just my two cents... I'm sure other coaches may disagree.</p>
<p>Take Care and Good Luck.</p>
<p>Hi,</p>
<p>Exact dates are always somewhat arbitrary. I like to use 1900 as a division. It does not not matter too much as it relates to my advice - which is two-fold. One, go with more clearly contrasting periods - make your classical piece "classical" beyond doubt (eighteen century or earlier) - and your contemporary - very contemporary (1930 or later). Two, and much more importantly, call the program(s) you are auditioning for and ask what they want - most folks will be pleased to help.</p>
<p>Best of Luck</p>
<p>where are you searching for your monologues?</p>
<p>I'm searching in the library. I'm in college right now, so as you would guess, we have a huge library. I go to the plays section and just pull books out and start looking through. Reading, learning about characters ages (that's important) and just digging through materials. It sure is taking a while.</p>