How to Choose the Right Monologues for Drama School Auditions (and how to find something that feels like you)

Drama school auditions can feel like a puzzle: you’re told to be unique, honest, connected… somehow do all of that in two minutes, sometimes with a speech written 400 years ago, AND make it yours. So, how do you choose monologues that showcase YOU — your instincts, your craft and your potential?

Here’s a quick guide to help you find pieces that serve and showcase you best.

1. Be Clear About What the Panel Wants to See

Most audition panels aren’t looking for a finished product. Why would you be going to Drama School if you are industry-ready? They’re looking to see whether you:

• Can you connect to text honestly

• Have imagination and empathy

• Own your choices and your voice (both technically, but also as an individual- what are your thoughts, opinions, aspirations, etc).

• Are you ready to learn, reflect and work hard for an extended period of time, WITH other people?

This means taking the pressure off needing to “perform” a character or show how talented you are. Trust that a panel will know talent when they see it. All you need to worry about is finding material that gives them a window into you: your impulses, your energy, your choices and being able to justify this passionately and eloquently. This is the first step in choosing the right monologues for drama school.

2. Choose Monologues You Are Excited About Performing

This one has two parts:

• PART 1: Once you've reminded yourself of what most panels are looking out for, it's then about focusing in on the most important aspect of choosing monologues: picking monologues that you are excited about. If they don't light your fire, steer clear. You will be performing your monologues A LOT and talking about them A LOT, so you want material you won't get bored of and that you can talk passionately about from an authentic place. 

• PART 2: You will have an easier time with Part 1 if you look for what it is about the monologue you connect with. What speaks to you and resonates with you about the material? For classical speeches, you don’t have to understand every word at first (you probably never will, I certainly don't). But it should make you want to dive in and explore.

Both of these should be at the forefront of your decision-making.   

3. Age-Appropriate (But Not Boring)

You don’t have to play an 18-year-old if you’re 18 — but choosing a 45-year-old divorcee with 4 kids, might not help, especially for your contemporary monologues. Instead, look for roles that feel close enough to your world and your experience that you can imagine your way into them without feeling like you’re pretending too much. As for Shakespeare/ Classical, don't worry about this too much- there is only so much classical material, but, again, make sure you are being sensible about this. 

Your aim is connection, not impersonation.

4. Look for Conflict, Change and Stakes

A good audition monologue usually involves:

• A want — the character needs something, urgently- identify what this is (remember it can change). 

• An obstacle — there’s something in the way (internal or external).

• A shift — the character changes or realises something by the end.

This gives you shape and journey — two things audition panels love, and something that will help showcase your ability. 

6. Don’t Wait for the Perfect Piece

There’s no “perfect” monologue. What matters most is what you do with it. Pick a speech that:

• You genuinely like

• Feels alive in your mouth, body and mind

• Allows you to connect to something truthful that resonates with you

Then get to work. That’s where the magic happens. Small steps little and often.

Bonus Tip: Avoid the Pitfall of the 'Challenge'

Sometimes the temptation is to pick something that you think will challenge you. Drama School is where you can challenge and push yourself. To get there, you just want something that will show you at your best. 

Final Thought: Get Help From Someone You Trust

A coach can help you:

• Explore a shortlist of speeches

• Sense-check your choices

• Work on your speeches and help you find the nuance

REMEMBER: Choosing the right monologue isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about choosing something you can inhabit. A speech you can believe in and are passionate about. One that gives the panel a glimpse of what it would be like to work with you for the next one/two/three years.

If you’d like help with selection or want your shortlist reviewed, I offer monologue consultations as one of my coaching one-offs, as well as 1-2-1 coaching packages. If this is of interest, please just get in touch.