Paul's Chrysanthemums

This emotional, modern-classic monologue from the musical A Chorus Line was written by James Kirkwood Jr. and Nicholas Dant. Running between one and two minutes, the piece captures a deeply personal memory centered on performance, identity, and parental acceptance. Paul recounts the terrifying yet transformative moment his parents arrived early to one of his theatrical shows, leading to an unexpected backstage encounter that permanently reshaped his family dynamic.

Paul is an anxious, reflective performer in his 20s to 30s who fits the outsider and dramatic casting types. He balances a sharp sense of theatrical humor with an underlying fragility born from years of concealing his true identity. When remembering his parents' unexpected presence, his protective defenses fall away, revealing a deeply vulnerable individual who simply longs for acknowledgment and love from his father.

This selection is a standout showcase for general auditions because it provides an immediate and gripping dramatic arc. The monologue begins with lively, descriptive storytelling before shifting seamlessly into raw, grounded emotion. Casting teams are able to assess your comedic timing, your ability to establish clear imaginary circumstances, and your capacity to navigate an intense emotional breakthrough without pushing into melodrama.

This material is best suited for male actors in their 20s or 30s reading for vulnerable, dramatic, everyman, or character actor roles. It is an exceptional choice for general theatre auditions that call for a modern-classic monologue requiring emotional authenticity, focus, and strong narrative pacing.

Begin the monologue with energy, clearly visualizing the elaborate costume and the frantic atmosphere backstage. Allow the audience to enjoy the nostalgic humor of the opening moments so that the sudden shock of spotting family creates a sharp, noticeable contrast. Resist the urge to anticipate the emotional climax too early in the speech. Keep the dialogue with your parents simple and quiet, letting the weight of their final words naturally overwhelm you in the final beats.