The Obsidian Stare

This monologue, "The Obsidian Stare" from Martin Zimmerman's play *On the Exhale*, plunges into a high-stakes, contemporary drama. It presents a female college professor's terrifying recollection of confronting a male student who subtly reveals a concealed weapon during a grade dispute. The scene masterfully explores the intersection of academic power dynamics, gendered aggression, and the visceral, immediate fear of gun violence, all through the professor's analytical yet deeply traumatized lens.

The Professor is portrayed as an intelligent, articulate woman whose professional authority is suddenly and violently undermined. She is observant, acutely aware of the "incendiary cocktail" of emotions emanating from her student, and prone to analytical thought even in moments of extreme peril, as evidenced by her internal questioning of her own instinctive reactions. Despite her intellectual prowess, she is also vulnerable and deeply human, grappling with a situation that forces her to confront her own mortality and the thin line between academic discourse and life-threatening danger. Her struggle to maintain composure while narrating a deeply traumatic event suggests a character with significant inner strength and resilience.

"The Obsidian Stare" is an excellent choice for auditions due to its immediate dramatic impact and the profound emotional journey it offers. The monologue provides a clear arc from perceived professional control to abject fear and a desperate bid for survival, allowing an actor to demonstrate a wide range of emotions and intellectual depth. Its contemporary setting and exploration of relevant, resonant themes like gun violence and power dynamics make it incredibly timely and engaging for casting directors. The internal monologue structure also provides ample opportunity for nuanced vocal and physical choices, showcasing an actor's ability to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances.

This monologue is particularly well-suited for female actors in the 30s-50s age range who can embody roles such as Leading Lady, Authority Figure, or Teacher, especially those with an intense or vulnerable casting type. It is ideal for drama school auditions, agent showcases, self-tapes, and competitions where a powerful and thought-provoking dramatic piece is required. Actors looking to display their capacity for conveying trauma, intellectual analysis under pressure, and emotional vulnerability will find this piece extremely rewarding.

When performing "The Obsidian Stare," focus on the Professor's internal monologue and the vivid imagery she creates. Pay close attention to the shift in her understanding and perception as the threat becomes real, exploring the subtle but crucial changes in her voice, breath, and physicality as she recounts the terrifying details. Emphasize the contrast between her intellectual analysis and her primal fear, allowing both aspects of her character to coexist. Remember that the "obsidian stare" refers to the gun itself; convey the chilling power and presence of that object without resorting to overtly theatrical gestures, instead letting the terror reside in her eyes and the stillness of her body.