The Old Ways

This powerful monologue features Kross, an aging industrialist, as he confronts Vivian about the predatory business practices of her boyfriend, Edward. Kross delivers a lament for the decline of American manufacturing, reflecting on a past era when wealth was built through creation rather than acquisition. The scene is charged with a mix of nostalgia, frustration, and a deep sense of betrayal as he describes how figures like Edward are dismantling the very legacy he helped build.

Kross is depicted as a robust patriarch, a man in his 70s with a lifetime of experience in a hard-nosed industry. He embodies the archetype of a self-made man, proud of his contributions to American industrial might, specifically shipbuilding. His words reveal a character who feels a profound personal connection to the nation's manufacturing history, viewing its decline as a personal failure or betrayal. He is intense, passionate, and speaks from a place of deep conviction, representing an older guard who feels sidelined and misunderstood in the contemporary business world.

This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions due to its immediate emotional impact and clear character arc within a short duration. It allows an actor to showcase a wide range of emotions—pride, anger, regret, and a sense of loss—without needing complex staging or interaction. The language is rich and evocative, providing ample opportunity for dynamic vocal and physical choices that demonstrate gravitas and vulnerability. It's a contained piece that quickly establishes a strong, memorable character for casting directors.

This material is perfectly suited for male actors aged 55 and above, particularly those aiming for casting types such as Patriarch, Authority Figure, or Character Actor. Its powerful tone and themes of legacy and industrial decline make it ideal for drama school auditions, agent showcases, or self-tapes where demonstrating emotional depth and a commanding presence is key. Actors comfortable with conveying intensity and a working-class sensibility will find this monologue particularly resonant.

When approaching this monologue, focus on Kross's deep-seated pride and the tangible sense of loss he expresses. Allow his industrialist background to inform your physicality; perhaps a grounded, strong stance that subtly betrays the weight of his regret. Pay close attention to the shifts in his emotional landscape, moving from indignant accusation to wistful remembrance, then to a simmering anger at the perceived destruction of his life's work. Let the weight of the words about "building ships the size of cities" and "sending men to the moon" truly land, anchoring his lament in a powerful sense of former glory.