BOB: And the manager, he looks at me and says, 'We don't pay in money here in East Orange.' He says 'We pay here in chess men.' And I say, 'Okay, gimme my chess men then.' And he reaches under the bar and pulls out a King and Queen. So, I take my King and my Queen down the street to a bar. And I go to the bartender and I says 'Gimme a pint.' And the…
Bobby Dylan's Chess Story — A Complete Unknown
A young Bob Dylan performs a comedic anecdote at Gerde's Folk City about being paid in chess pieces for a gig in New Jersey. The scene captures his early stage persona—nervous, witty, and slightly edgy—as he transitions from a storyteller into his musical performance while acknowledging Joan Baez in the crowd.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Comedy-Drama · Source: A Complete Unknown · Author: James Mangold · Characters: Bob
About This Scene
This monologue, titled "Bobby Dylan's Chess Story" from the film A Complete Unknown, offers a quirky and comedic glimpse into the early stage persona of a young Bob Dylan. It showcases his dry wit and storytelling prowess as he recounts an improbable tale of being paid in chess pieces for a gig. The monologue serves as a transition into his musical performance, subtly acknowledging another notable presence in the room, making it an engaging and dynamic piece.
Character Analysis
Bob, in this scene, is presented as a young, aspiring musician with a nervous yet endearing stage presence. He embodies the "outsider" and "rebel" archetypes, using humor to connect with his audience while maintaining a slightly edgy demeanor. His storytelling is central to his persona, revealing a clever mind and a unique way of processing the world around him. This character is an excellent fit for actors who can convey intelligence, wit, and a touch of vulnerability.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is a fantastic choice for auditions because it demonstrates a wide range of acting skills within a compact timeframe. Its comedic-drama genre allows for both humor and subtle character depth, while the "quirky" tone provides an opportunity for actors to showcase individuality and charm. The storytelling format also highlights an actor's ability to engage an audience, build tension, and deliver a punchline effectively, which are all crucial for captivating casting directors.
Best Suited For
This monologue is particularly well-suited for male actors in the 18-25 age range who identify with character actor, comedic, quirky, outsider, or rebel casting types. It's an excellent piece for drama school auditions, agent showcases, and self-tapes, as it immediately grabs attention and leaves a lasting impression. Actors who enjoy playing intelligent, slightly awkward, and captivating storytellers will find this material highly effective.
Performance Tips
When performing this monologue, focus on Bob's nervous energy at the beginning, allowing it to morph into confidence as he gets into his story. Pay close attention to the rhythm and dry humor of the dialogue, letting the comedy land naturally rather than forcing it. Experiment with varying your pacing and vocal dynamics to keep the audience engaged, especially during the build-up to the punchline. Remember to convey the subtle acknowledgment of Joan Baez, adding another layer to the performance without explicitly stating it, showcasing a nuanced understanding of the scene's context.