An Evening of Monologues

Wednesdays, Jan. 14- March 25, 6:30-8:30 PM

(performance date in late March)

MEL, 23 Rue Lakanal–Beaux Arts Neighborhood 

BCA is pleased  to reprise this offering, which was a big success last spring. This 11-week performance process, designed for amateur actors,  culminates in a live stage performance of original monologues drawn from each actor's own life experiences.  Their monologues will offer a mix of frankness, self-reflection, pathos, and humor.  Sample topics may include a beloved memory; feelings about a relative,  friend,  favorite teacher,  challenging boss, former romance; or their commitment to an important “cause.”  A few actors may explore difficult memories, such as a time of grief, overcoming a serious life crisis, or moving past a childhood trauma. 

 Together, we will safely recall and then "imagineer" each actor's most meaningful memories.  The actors will be led through a process to adopt a unique perspective on a chosen memory.  Then, they will craft, draft, write, and rewrite a monologue between rehearsals over multiple weeks.  With the director, the actors will help shape the show during a formal rehearsal process.  In addition to basic acting techniques, the actors will learn how to memorize and perform their monologues in ways that are safe, inviting and accessible to an audience.  There will be one public performance in early April. 

This performance process is limited to 12 amateur actors.  Advanced English skills required.  (If oversubscribed, preference will be given to those who have not participated in Monologues or Performance Group). Actors must attend most rehearsals, and if an absence occurs, the actors agree to consult with the director by WhatsApp at least once before the next scheduled rehearsal.  The goal is to build a cohesive team, so every actor shares an equal stake in the creation of an engaging spoken-word event, which will also feature instrumental music performed by local musicians.  

Activity Leader: Art McDermott (who previously co-led the Improv and Monologues programs this past year for BCA) is a former social worker turned union actor and stage director.  He developed this process with two fellow actors in The Company of Angels of Los Angeles, CA.