Independent audition guide
LAMDA Audition Monologues
BA (Hons) Professional Acting: UK/international first-round self-tape
Prepare two contrasting speeches: one from the school’s Classical Monologue List and one contemporary choice. One can last up to three minutes; the other must be no longer than two.
What to prepare
- Choose the classical speech from the official Classical Monologue List linked in the guidance.
- Choose a contrasting contemporary speech.
- One speech: three-minute maximum. The other: two-minute maximum.
- Check the separate instructions if auditioning through the North American process.
Official guidance checked. Reviewed 2026-09-06. Check the official brief for your course, entry year and audition stage before settling on material.
Build your audition shortlist
Start with play monologues up to 3 min. These filters help you explore, but do not verify a prescribed speech list, writing date or verse form. Check the original text and time your performance.
For LAMDA, one of your two pieces must still fit the shorter two-minute limit, and your classical speech must be on its official list.
Find my monologueSave your shortlist for free, then open a scene to read and rehearse it. Full premium scripts require access.
Prepare the piece
Read the whole play. Know who you are speaking to, what you want, and what changes during the speech. Time the cut aloud with room for thought, then rehearse it without rushing.
How to choose and prepare contrasting monologues