Bonobos and Chimps

This monologue, from Dennis Kelly's compelling play *Dna*, features Leah as she delivers a frantic, almost desperate address to a silent character, Phil. She launches into an intense comparison between bonobos and chimpanzees, using their differing social behaviors as a thinly veiled commentary on human nature and the unsettling events surrounding her group. The scene builds in tension as Leah's need for a reaction from Phil escalates, leading to a shocking, self-harming act that underscores her profound emotional distress and the group's collective anxiety.

Leah is a young woman grappling with profound existential anxiety and perhaps a deeply unsettling shared experience. Her stream of consciousness reveals an intelligent, observational mind, but one that is clearly overwhelmed and struggling to process difficult realities. The monologue showcases her vulnerability, her deep need for connection or validation, and a potential obsession with understanding the motivations behind cruelty and empathy. Her escalating actions demonstrate a character pushed to a dangerous edge, desperate to provoke a response, even at personal cost.

This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions due to its immediate dramatic impact and the wide range of emotions it allows an actor to explore. It begins with an intellectual, albeit intense, discussion and quickly spirals into raw vulnerability and shocking desperation, showcasing significant emotional transitions. The sustained, one-sided conversation demands strong focus and the ability to maintain tension without direct interaction, proving an actor's capacity for independent scene work. It effectively demonstrates depth, intensity, and a command of dramatic material.

This scene is particularly well-suited for female actors aged 18-25 who are looking to showcase their ability to portray complex emotional states, particularly vulnerability and intense anxiety. It is ideal for drama school auditions, self-tapes requiring a strong dramatic arc, or general practice for actors wanting to stretch their emotional range. Actors who excel at portraying outsiders, vulnerable individuals, or intense character roles will find this a powerful vehicle to demonstrate their talent.

When performing this monologue, focus on Leah's escalating desperation and the underlying anxiety driving her words. Pay close attention to the rhythm and shifts in her thought process, starting with the almost academic comparison of primates and transitioning into her deeply personal plea for connection. The physical action of self-harm, though disturbing, must be grounded in her character's urgent need for a reaction, making it believable and impactful rather than purely performative. Remember that Phil's silence is a crucial element; react to that silence, allowing it to fuel Leah's increasing frustration and ultimate breakdown.