Preparing for a Shakespeare Solo Audition: Guidance for Novices

Hi there! I understand the nerves and excitement that come with preparing for a Shakespeare solo audition for a drama class at a UK university. I had similar experiences when I was in your shoes, and I’m here to offer some guidance and tips to help you get started.

Names and Performances

The play you’ve chosen, Romeo and Juliet, is one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated works, and performing Romeo’s soliloquy from outside the balcony can indeed be tempting due to its timeless appeal. However, as you mentioned, it may be seen as cliché and common among auditionees. It’s important to find a scene that aligns with your personal style and gives you a competitive edge.

Which Plays by Shakespeare Have You Read? Which Did You Like?

Have you read any of Shakespeare’s plays? If so, which ones did you enjoy? Knowing the plays you love can help you choose a more unique and memorable audition piece. Some of Shakespeare’s other classic works—such as Twelfth Night, All's Well That Ends Well, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Romeo and Juliet—are rich with solo scenes that might suit your needs perfectly.

Key Considerations for Your Audition

When choosing a scene for your audition, keep in mind that drama teachers and instructors are primarily looking for your ability to handle Shakespeare’s language. Most of Shakespeare’s dialogue is written in iambic pentameter, which is a rhythmic pattern where each line has five accented syllables. This can be challenging for new actors to practically recite.

Avoid Over-the-Top Characters

Avoid choosing scenes that require you to assume an exaggerated character or persona, such as the witches in Macbeth. Instead, opt for a soliloquy where the character is young and somewhat relatable to yourself. This will allow you to focus on speaking iambic pentameter in a natural way rather than worrying about conveying a character’s unique voice or mannerisms.

Sample Monologues

Here are some Monologues from classic Shakespeare plays that could be suitable:

As You Like It – Rosalind's "Be not too tame nor too wild." Twelfth Night – Viola's "If music be the food of love, play on." All's Well That Ends Well – Helena’s "Would that I were thy mother’s glass." A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Hermia's "Many a morning hath he theresoap." Romeo and Juliet – Juliet’s “What joy can music give.”

Tips for Reciting iambic Pentameter

When speaking lines in iambic pentameter, it’s important to hint at the underlying rhythm of accented syllables without reciting them in a sing-song fashion. For example, the rhythm goes: de-DUH de-DUH de-DUH de-DUH de-DUH. This pattern can be difficult to achieve at first, but with practice, you can get the hang of it.

Concentrate on Natural Delivery

Choose a soliloquy from a character who is your age and relatable to yourself. This will allow you to concentrate on delivering the lines in a natural and fluid manner. The goal is to accurately reflect the character while still sounding like a real person.

Keep a Positive Mindset

Remember that you’re auditioning for a chance to learn, not to prove your perfection. The class is there to help you develop your skills, and everyone starts somewhere. Even seasoned actors face challenges when performing Shakespeare, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Just do your best and let the experience guide you.

Final Thoughts

In summary, selecting the right scene for your solo audition is crucial. Consider opting for a soliloquy from a young and relatable character, such as Rosalind from As You Like It or Viola from Twelfth Night. These monologues will allow you to focus on the iambic pentameter rhythm while sounding natural and true to the character.

Break a leg! Good luck with your audition, and I hope these tips help you shine. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask. Happy auditions!