Independent audition guide
RADA Audition Monologues
BA (Hons) Acting: preliminary self-tape
Prepare a contrasting classical and contemporary speech, each lasting up to two minutes. Later rounds ask for additional material.
What to prepare
- Classical: Shakespeare or an Elizabethan/Jacobean playwright, originally written in English.
- Contemporary: written after 1960 and contrasting with the classical speech.
- Each speech: no more than two minutes.
- Include the requested introduction and explanation of your choices.
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 2 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.
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