Solo dialogue can seriously test the mettle of any actor. Doing monologue is not a skill that is easily mastered, but it can make a difference to an actor’s success. The importance of solo dialogue in acting becomes clear when actors have to do a solo audition. How can actors master solo dialogue? They can start by taking professional acting workshops, to learn the nuts and bolts of the technique.
Professional acting classes cover a range of techniques that can improve your acting skills. However, workshops that include scene study and improv expose you to techniques that can improve your solo dialogue skills. In this regard, two of the most beneficial techniques are the ‘who’ and ‘pre-life.’
- The ‘who’ in acting, is the specific character in the copy that you have chosen to relate to. Selecting someone to connect to in a piece is a helpful way to get the dialogue flowing. Therefore, when you look into the camera you will ‘know’ who you are speaking to and address them directly.
- The ‘pre-life’ also helps you to connect with the dialogue, as it is allows you to better prepare for your first line. ‘Pre-life’ is the feeling or action that you believe would have motivated the scripted dialogue and should relate to the ‘who’ you are connecting with. Taking the time to formulate the ‘pre-life’ makes the dialogue more believable.
Finding a connection is important because it will determine the tone and energy of your delivery. The ‘who’ and ‘pre-life’ both help you deliver a truthful performance in the little time you have.
If you’d like more information about the importance of solo dialogue in acting, sign up for professional acting classes at Carolyne Barry Creative Ent. in Los Angeles. And check out her articles and videos on backstage.com, master talent teachers and her YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/CarolyneBarry)
Call Carolyne today at (323) 654-2212, or email us at [email protected].