The Natural Order of Things

This comedic yet reflective monologue features Les, a character from the film "Tootsie," as he offers his traditional perspective on gender roles and identity. He unknowingly shares his insights with Dorothy Michaels, who is actually Michael Dorsey in disguise, creating a rich layer of dramatic irony for the actor to play. The scene explores themes of tradition, perceived natural order, and the unwavering belief in one's own discernment, making it a compelling piece for showcasing nuanced acting.

Les is presented as a patriarch figure, grounded in what he perceives as the "natural order of things," likely from a rural, working-class background. His character is vulnerable in his earnest belief and conviction, yet utterly oblivious to the true identity of his listener. He genuinely believes he possesses an innate understanding of gender, leading to moments of profound irony for the audience. Actors should focus on his sincerity and the quiet confidence born from his life experiences, rather than playing him as a caricature.

This monologue is excellent for auditions because it offers a fantastic opportunity to display vulnerability, sincerity, and comedic timing within a single, brief piece. The inherent irony allows an actor to convey both the character's genuine belief and the underlying humor without explicitly "playing" for laughs. It demonstrates an actor's ability to handle complex subtext and engage an unseen partner effectively, making it suitable for self-tapes where the actor must conjure the other character.

This scene is particularly well-suited for male character actors in the 55+ age range who can embody a wise, perhaps slightly old-fashioned, everyman quality. It's ideal for those looking to showcase a grounded, authentic presence combined with a subtle comedic sensibility. Actors comfortable with portraying sincerity and a touch of ironic obliviousness will find this piece allows them to shine, making it perfect for agent showcases or general practice.

When approaching Les, focus on his absolute conviction and gentle delivery. His hand gesture at the end is a key beat, underscoring his perceived connection and understanding. Resist the urge to play the comedy; instead, commit fully to Les's belief in "the natural order of things" and his genuine affection for "Dorothy." The humor arises naturally from the situation, not from an actor's overt comedic choices, so trust the writing and let Les's earnestness guide your performance.