Monologue Night - Pass or Fail?

MONOLOGUE. NIGHT; when put together in a sentence, these two words can turn a group of actors into nervous wrecks. The actors who stepped onto the stage of our New York Theatrette were anything but.

As the newest member of staff at The Actor’s Pulse, this was the first time I have seen the students in a performance context. The quality of the performances was a demonstration of the dedication and commitment these students have to the craft of acting. Facing an audience of their peers and coaches, the Intermediate students each performed a two minute long monologue of their choice, followed by a individual critique and performance commentary by Billy Milionis.

The lights went up at 7pm and the first student entered the stage. Over two performance nights we were treated to 51 monologues, introducing us to a host of interesting characters and the worlds they live in. Both nights, the performances ran straight through without intermission; it wasn’t necessary, if anything it would have broken the wonderful atmosphere that hung in the studio. It was engrossing; taking the audience on a new journey, two minutes at a time. From an Irish prison to a Texas plantation and a drug addiction helpline call centre, there was never a dull moment!

The performances were insightful and affecting, consistent in their high standard. I saw firsthand the engaging results of the Meisner technique and the skills these students are building.

The performance commentary, from Billy Milionis, was perceptive and constructive. He stepped the students through the highs and lows of their monologues, emphasising the arch of their stories. Billy highlighted the importance of blocking their scenes and use of their voice, encouraging their self-awareness in performance. It was interesting that most students agreed with Billy’s critique. The Meisner technique and the class structure at The Actor’s Pulse teaches observation and analysis skills. They were each able to objectively reflect on their performance and take on board Billy’s advice.

Both were brilliant nights, entertaining for the non-actors watching and educational for the newer Actor’s Pulse students in the audience. I admire all the students for their hard work and I’m already looking forward to the next Monologue Night later this year!

Congratulations to all who performed and thank you to audiences for your support.