The Last Time We Played Pretend

This contemporary duologue, "The Last Time We Played Pretend," from the film *My Old Ass*, beautifully captures a pivotal moment in two young individuals' lives. Elliott grapples with the fear of leaving home for college, articulating her dread of final goodbyes. Her friend Chad offers a profound perspective, reflecting on the bittersweet reality of outgrowing cherished childhood experiences without realizing it was the last time. The scene, imbued with a vulnerable tone, explores themes of coming of age, nostalgia, and the unseen transitions of growing up.

Elliott, an 18-25 year old, experiences the common anxiety of transition and leaving home. She initially presents as excited, then vulnerable, revealing a tendency to downplay her emotions before admitting her true fear. Chad, also 18-25, serves as a grounded, introspective counterpart. He is observant and empathetic, delivering a surprisingly philosophical insight that deeply resonates with Elliott, showcasing wisdom beyond his years. Both characters exhibit an Everyman quality, making their experiences universally understood.

This scene is an excellent audition choice due to its clear emotional arc and compelling dialogue, allowing both actors to showcase significant depth. It offers rich opportunities for nuanced emotional shifts, from Elliott's initial anxiety to her profound realization, and Chad's thoughtful delivery of a poignant monologue. The comedy-drama blend means actors can demonstrate versatility, navigating vulnerability and conversational humor. Its contemporary setting and relatable themes of goodbyes and growing up make it highly accessible and impactful for a casting director to observe authenticity.

"The Last Time We Played Pretend" is ideally suited for actors aged 18-25, particularly those aiming for Ingenue, Boy Next Door, or Vulnerable casting types. It's an excellent piece for drama school auditions, offering a strong blend of emotional depth and conversational realism. The scene also shines in self-tape scenarios, allowing actors to craft performances without immediate audience pressure, and is perfect for agent showcases to demonstrate range. Furthermore, its concise two-minute duration makes it a practical choice for general practice, helping actors hone their ability to connect quickly and deeply with material.

When performing this scene, actors should focus on each character's underlying emotional truth. For Elliott, allow her initial excitement to genuinely shift into palpable fear, making her confession feel truly vulnerable, as if she's letting her guard down. Pay attention to the realization moment described in the stage directions, letting it land with impact. For Chad, ground his monologue in genuine reflection and empathy, rather than just reciting lines; let his words come from shared understanding and subtle, personal sadness. Both actors should prioritize listening to their scene partner, ensuring the conversation feels organic and responsive.