Why Short Monologues Are Essential for Actors

Short monologues (1-2 minutes) are crucial for:
✔ Auditions – Many casting directors prefer concise pieces.
✔ Showcase performances – Quick, impactful moments stand out.
✔ Practice – Helps actors refine emotional range and timing.

Need inspiration? Here are the best short monologues for actors.

Best Dramatic Short Monologues

1. “Proof” by David Auburn (Catherine)

• Summary: A young woman struggles with her father’s legacy of genius and madness.
• Why It’s Great: Emotionally raw, with layers of vulnerability and defiance.

2. “Rabbit Hole” by David Lindsay-Abaire (Becca)

• Summary: A grieving mother reflects on loss and healing.
• Why It’s Great: Deeply moving, with quiet intensity.

3. “Doubt: A Parable” by John Patrick Shanley (Sister Aloysius)

• Summary: A nun expresses her unwavering conviction.
• Why It’s Great: Sharp, commanding, and morally complex.

Best Comedic Short Monologues

4. “The Vagina Monologues” by Eve Ensler (The Woman Who Loved to Make Vaginas Happy)

• Summary: A hilarious, bold take on female pleasure.
• Why It’s Great: Unapologetically funny and empowering.

5. “Boeing Boeing” by Marc Camoletti (Gloria)

• Summary: A flight attendant boasts about her chaotic love life.
• Why It’s Great: Fast-paced, bubbly, and full of charm.

6. “You Can’t Take It With You” by Moss Hart & George S. Kaufman (Alice)

• Summary: A woman vents about her eccentric family.
• Why It’s Great: Lighthearted yet relatable family chaos.

Contemporary vs. Classical Monologues