Act One — In The Beginning

This contemporary duologue from Lucy Kirkwood's play *Mosquitoes* features two sisters, Jenny and Alice, in a tense and intimate conversation. Heavily pregnant Jenny is consumed by profound anxiety about her unborn baby and the birthing process, confiding her deepest fears to her sister. Alice attempts to provide comfort and reassurance, navigating Jenny's increasingly intense worries about medical procedures and the unknown. The scene beautifully captures the complex dynamics of sisterhood under immense emotional strain.

Jenny, at 39 and heavily pregnant, embodies intense vulnerability and a deep-seated fear that manifests as obsessive anxiety. Her character requires an actor to tap into genuine panic and paranoia, showcasing how fear can distort perception and drive irrational decisions, such as avoiding ultrasounds. Alice, 41, serves as the grounding force, attempting to be supportive and rational while clearly struggling with her sister's unconventional fears. Portraying Alice demands a balance of maternal instinct, exasperation, and unwavering sisterly love, making her a "Best Friend" or even "Matriarch" type figure in this moment of crisis.

This scene offers a phenomenal showcase for actors looking to demonstrate emotional depth and intensity. The dramatic tension builds naturally, providing clear arcs for both characters as Jenny's fears escalate and Alice's attempts at reassurance shift. It's a fantastic vehicle for showing reactive acting, as both sisters are constantly responding to each other's words and emotional states. The contemporary setting and relatable themes of sisterhood, anxiety, and motherhood make it accessible yet challenging, allowing actors to connect with universal human experiences.

This duologue is ideally suited for female-identifying actors in the 35-45 age range, particularly those who excel at portraying intense drama and nuanced emotional states. It is perfect for actors comfortable exploring themes of vulnerability, anxiety, and the profound bonds of family. Given its contemporary nature and the depth of emotion required, it’s an excellent choice for drama school auditions, self-tapes, or as a powerful practice piece for honing dramatic skills. The scene also works well for actors embodying "Vulnerable" or "Intense" casting types.

When performing this scene, focus on the subtext beneath Jenny's words – her fear is palpable and drives her seemingly irrational resistance. For Jenny, allow the anxiety to manifest physically, showing how it impacts her breathing and movement, rather than just stating it. For Alice, ensure her attempts at reassurance aren't dismissive, but rather stem from a genuine desire to alleviate her sister's suffering, even as exasperation starts to show. Pay close attention to the shifts in dynamics and power, particularly as Alice eventually shares her own story, attempting to shift the emotional weight.