Expert: John T. Aney - 5/22/2007

Question
Hello!  I am auditioning to be a resident artist at a children's theater company soon.  I've never auditioned for children's theater as an adult!  I'm not sure how to select a monologue.  Please don't misunderstand me - I am not asking for you to give me a specific monologue recommendation.  I am hoping you can let me know what is the standard practice for children's theater audition monologues.  I can't imagine any of my Shakespeare, Aeschylus, Durang, Mamet, or Williams monologues are appropriate!  Should I perform something from a children's play specifically?  Would it be acceptable to perform a monologue done by a younger character - since this company has adult actors playing children's roles?  Should I just recite some Seuss?

Your assistance is greatly appreciated.  Any information that you can give me on what adults use to audition for children's theater companies is of great help.

Answer
I've never auditioned for Children's Theatre, but I think your instincts are right.  It's a great idea just to do some Seuss - non-traditional monologues are often a great alternative.  If the theatre has adults playing younger roles, then yes, do something younger.

jta