The Private Wish

This two-minute duologue, "The Private Wish" from Ava DuVernay's *Middle of Nowhere*, presents an intimate connection between two women of different generations. Set on a bus, the scene reveals the older, wise Cornelia sharing sermon insights about discovering one's "private wish" – a suppressed, personal desire. This encourages Ruby, initially guarded, to reflect on her true happiness, creating a subtle yet powerful exchange about vulnerability and inner longing.

Ruby, a female in her 30s, fits a "Vulnerable" casting type, likely also a "Leading Lady" or "Everyman" with a thoughtful interior. She appears guarded and weary, initially deflecting Cornelia's questions. Her breakthrough, revealing her nephew as her happiness source, indicates deep emotion and an underlying capacity for joy. Cornelia, a female in her 70s, embodies "Matriarch" and potentially "Working Class" archetypes, exuding warmth, directness, and lived wisdom. She acts as an empathetic, gentle catalyst, using humor and anecdotes to encourage Ruby, demonstrating a keen understanding of human nature without being overbearing.

This scene is an excellent audition choice due to its raw emotional honesty and subtle, profound character development. It allows actors to showcase nuanced internal work and authentic reactions, moving from guardedness to genuine reflection. The contemporary setting and relatable themes of happiness, connection, and introspection make it accessible and relevant, enabling actors to connect personally. Its two-minute duration is ideal for self-tapes and live auditions, offering a complete dramatic arc within a concise timeframe.

"The Private Wish" is well-suited for actors aged 25-35 portraying Ruby, and those portraying Cornelia in their 70s. It’s ideal for drama school auditions, emphasizing character depth and emotional range, and for agent showcases, demonstrating capacity for grounded, vulnerable work. Naturalistic dialogue and emotional undertones make it perfect for self-tapes, where subtle expressions and truthful reactions shine. This scene is excellent for actors embodying "Vulnerable" or "Everyman" casting types, as well as those portraying wise "Matriarch" figures.

For Ruby, focus on initial reluctance and the internal struggle to articulate feelings, making her breakthrough about her nephew feel earned. Explore the weight of unspoken feelings and their manifestation in physicality and vocal tone. For Cornelia, embrace her warmth and gentle persistence, using humor and personal stories to disarm Ruby. Pay attention to the rhythm of knitting as a grounding activity and a symbol of their evolving connection, allowing moments of silence to speak volumes. Both actors should prioritize listening and reacting truthfully, letting their connection drive the scene's emotional impact.