Navigating the Modern Monologue: A Deep Dive with Karen Kohlhaas
For actors, the monologue isn’t just a performance piece; it’s a calling card, a demonstration of range, and often, the key to unlocking the next opportunity. Karen Kohlhaas, a founding member of the Atlantic Theater Company and a seasoned acting coach, is offering a free workshop this weekend focused on mastering this crucial skill. Her approach, honed over 35 years in the classroom, centers on practical aesthetics and understanding what truly resonates in an audition room.
The Evolving Landscape of Monologue Selection
Choosing the right monologue is more complex than ever. The sheer volume of available material can be overwhelming. Kohlhaas’s workshop addresses this directly, tackling questions like: what *is* a good monologue, and more importantly, what’s a good monologue for you? This personalized approach is vital. A monologue that shines for one actor might fall flat for another.
Kohlhaas emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific audition. What’s a good monologue for a dramatic role will differ significantly from one suited for comedy. She’ll too cover identifying monologue types to have readily available in your repertoire, and equally important, which ones to avoid.
The Art of Editing and Avoiding Pitfalls
A strong monologue isn’t always a complete scene. Often, it requires careful cutting and editing. Kohlhaas’s workshop will cover how to do this effectively, ensuring the chosen excerpt tells a compelling story within the time constraints of an audition. She’ll also address the tricky territory of “overdone” monologues – those frequently used pieces that require exceptional skill to make your own.
The workshop isn’t just theoretical. Participants will have the opportunity to perform and receive direct feedback from Kohlhaas, making it a practical and immediately applicable learning experience.
Practical Aesthetics and the Future of Audition Training
Kohlhaas’s work is rooted in Practical Aesthetics, a technique developed at the Atlantic Theater Company. This approach focuses on breaking down a script to its core elements – what the character wants, what’s in their way, and what they do to overcome those obstacles. This analytical skill is invaluable not only for monologue work but for all aspects of acting.
Her influence extends beyond the stage and classroom. Kohlhaas is the author of The Monologue Audition: A Practical Guide for Actors, a book recommended by Helen Mirren and considered a “must-read” by Backstage magazine. She also teaches internationally and trains teachers in her monologue techniques.
Tennessee Williams and the Delta: A Unique Perspective
Kohlhaas’s scholarship on Tennessee Williams adds another layer to her teaching. She holds annual scene study and monologue trainings in Mississippi, the setting for many of Williams’s plays. This immersion in the playwright’s world provides a unique perspective on character development and emotional depth.
FAQ
Q: What if I can’t attend the scheduled workshop times?
A: Email [email protected] to be added to the mailing list for future classes and events.
Q: Is this workshop suitable for all levels of actors?
A: Yes, the workshop is designed to be beneficial for actors of all experience levels.
Q: What should I bring to the workshop?
A: Bring any monologues you are currently working on or considering for auditions.
Q: Where can I find more information about Karen Kohlhaas’s work?
A: Visit Art and the Audition or Atlantic Acting School.
Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your monologue skills with a leading expert. Reply to this post with your preferred date and time to reserve your spot!
