Drama School Audition Guide
RADA Audition Monologues
RADA is one of the most competitive drama schools in the world. For the first audition round, applicants prepare two contrasting monologues — typically one classical (often Shakespeare) and one modern. Pieces should be no longer than two minutes each.
What RADA asks for
- One Shakespeare or classical verse monologue
- One contemporary monologue (written after 1960)
- Each piece under two minutes
- Contrasting in tone, character and emotional register
- Memorised and performance-ready, not "read"
Requirements change year to year — always confirm the exact brief on the school's official website before you finalise your pieces.
Find your two contrasting pieces
Most RADA applicants need one classical and one contemporary monologue. Start here:
Classical MonologuesShakespeare & heightened textContemporary MonologuesModern, screen-ready piecesShakespeare MonologuesTragedies, comedies & histories2 Minute MonologuesThe standard audition length
Not sure what suits you? Try Monologue Match for AI recommendations based on your casting type, or take the free casting type quiz.