ABSTRACT

Is a speech the ultimate test of an actor’s abilities? Not necessarily. Given that a speech is an instance of concentrated acting, it is understandable that people commonly think of speeches as the true test of an actor’s gifts. But while some actors are strong monologuists, they are less effective dialoguists. They simply are not as adept at nurturing a chemistry between themselves and their fellow actors. Then again, some less inspired monologuists are exceptional performers when it comes to sharing a stage with other members of the cast.