While getting manicures, Maureen delivers a thinly veiled insult to Margaret by comparing her sexual reputation to the behavior of Bonobo apes. Margaret maintains her composure and delivers a sharp, cutting rebuttal that highlights Maureen's own insecurities and lack of prowess.
MAUREEN: I thought of you the other day.
MARGARET: Oh?
MAUREEN: We went to the monkey house. My dear, those chimps with their ghastly pink bottoms, just hideous.
MARGARET: They don’t know that, do they. They probably think they look adorable.
MAUREEN: And there were these other monkeys. Apes. Bonobos. Quite fascinating. Everything they do is about sex. They…
Format: Duologue · Genre: Historical Drama · Source: A Very British Scandal: Duchess of Argyll · Author: Sarah Phelps · Characters: Margaret, Maureen
This duologue, "The Bonobo Comparison," is a cutting exchange from a historical drama set in contemporary times, featuring two affluent women, Margaret and Maureen, in their 40s to 50s. The scene unfolds in a luxurious dressing room where they are both receiving manicures, creating a veneer of calm sophistication that sharply contrasts with the verbal sparring. Maureen initiates a subtly aggressive attack, cloaking a blatant insult in a seemingly innocent anecdote about Bonobo apes, forcing Margaret to defend her character and reputation.
Margaret is portrayed as a woman of composure and sharp wit, even when under direct assault. Her initial reaction reveals a controlled exterior, hinting at a history of navigating societal judgment and maintaining a sophisticated facade. Maureen, on the other hand, is passive-aggressive and insidiously manipulative, using veiled language to deliver a deeply personal and demeaning insult. Both characters embody elements of the "Leading Lady" and "Upper Class" casting types, sophisticated on the surface but revealing underlying vulnerabilities or toughness.
This scene is excellent for auditions because it provides rich textual and subtextual layers for actors to explore. The subtle aggression and sarcastic tone allow for nuanced performances, demonstrating an actor’s ability to convey complex emotions without resorting to overt melodrama. It showcases a performer’s command of language, timing, and composure under pressure, which is highly valued in the industry. The clear shift in power dynamics also offers a compelling arc within a short duration.
"The Bonobo Comparison" is particularly well-suited for female actors in their 40s to 50s who excel at playing sophisticated, upper-class characters with an edge. It is ideal for those specializing in "Leading Lady" or "Tough" casting types, as it requires a strong presence and the ability to deliver sharp, intelligent dialogue. This scene works perfectly for agent showcases, self-tapes, or general practice, providing a concise yet impactful display of an actor's dramatic capabilities.
When approaching this scene, focus on the subtext and unspoken tension between Margaret and Maureen. For Margaret, maintain a veneer of calm and control throughout Maureen's provocative monologue, allowing the subtle shifts in her facial expressions and body language to convey her internal struggle before delivering her powerful rebuttal. For Maureen, lean into the false sweetness and seemingly innocent delivery of her insult, making the underlying malice all the more impactful. Pay close attention to pacing; the stillness and quiet moments are just as important as the dialogue.