I've Come About the Assassination

This powerful dramatic monologue, titled "I've Come About the Assassination," features a Young Man delivering an intense and confrontational speech. He directly challenges an older, unseen figure, launching into a scathing critique of generational hypocrisy surrounding violence and warfare. The scene exposes a deep undercurrent of anger and frustration, as the Young Man argues that the youth are unfairly labeled as violent while institutionalized violence orchestrated by the older generation is overlooked.

The Young Man is characterized by his intense conviction, his articulate anger, and a profound sense of injustice. He feels that his generation is being unjustly blamed for societal ills, particularly violence, while the historical record reveals the destructive actions of those in power. His repetitive questioning and direct accusations suggest a character who is not just angry, but also deeply hurt and disillusioned by the perceived hypocrisy of the "older generation." He is a rebel with a cause, an outsider who dares to speak uncomfortable truths.

This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions because it showcases a significant emotional range within a compact timeframe. It allows an actor to explore intense anger, frustration, and a challenging vocal dynamic without requiring a scene partner. The contemporary setting and relatable themes of generational conflict and political disillusionment also make it highly relevant and impactful for a modern audience, providing a strong platform for a compelling performance.

This monologue is particularly well-suited for male actors aged 18-25 who are looking to embody a Rebel, Intense, Outsider, or Dramatic casting type. It provides a strong opportunity for drama school auditions, agent showcases, self-tapes, and acting competitions where a powerful and emotionally charged performance is desired. Actors who can tap into themes of political disillusionment and generational conflict will find this piece particularly rewarding.

When performing this monologue, focus on the Young Man's underlying sense of betrayal and hurt, which fuels his outward anger. While the intensity is crucial, avoid it becoming one-note; allow for shifts in vocal rhythm and emphasis to highlight specific accusations and rhetorical questions. Consider the unseen "Dad" and how your relationship with that figure influences your delivery. Let the words build in frustration, demonstrating a character pushed to his breaking point by perceived hypocrisy and injustice.