10 Monologues Every Actor of Color Woman Should Know

As the entertainment industry continues to evolve and diversify, there is an increasing demand for representation of actors of color, particularly women. With this shift in the industry, it is crucial for aspiring actors to have monologues in their repertoire that showcase their talent and unique experiences. In this article, we will explore ten monologues that are perfect for actors of color women looking to make a statement and leave a lasting impression.

1. "A Raisin in the Sun" - Lena Younger

In Lorraine Hansberry's iconic play, "A Raisin in the Sun," Lena Younger (also known as Mama) delivers a powerful monologue in which she expresses her dreams and desires to create a better future for her family. This monologue is a perfect choice for actors of color women as it highlights the strength, resilience, and determination often found in their communities.

2. "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf" - Lady in Blue

Ntozake Shange's groundbreaking choreopoem, "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf," features multiple powerful monologues that explore the experiences of women of color. The monologue performed by the Lady in Blue delves into the struggles and resilience often faced by black women, making it a powerful choice for actors of color women looking to depict the complexities of their own experiences.

Monologues for Actors of Color: Women

by Tessa Hainsworth(2nd Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2470 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	126 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	82 pages
Item Weight	:	8 ounces
Dimensions	:	0.25 x 6 x 9 inches

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3. "Fences" - Rose Maxson

In August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, "Fences," Rose Maxson delivers a heartfelt monologue in which she confronts her husband about the sacrifices she has made for their family. This monologue is an excellent choice for actors of color women as it allows them to tap into the raw emotions and strength inherent in their community.

4. "Ruined" - Mama Nadi

Lynn Nottage's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, "Ruined," revolves around the struggles of women in war-torn Congo. Mama Nadi's monologues throughout the play exemplify the strength, resilience, and determination of women in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Actors of color women can use these monologues to showcase their ability to convey the profound struggles faced by their community.

5. "Intimate Apparel" - Esther Mills

Lynn Nottage's play, "Intimate Apparel," tells the story of Esther Mills, an African American woman working as a seamstress in early 20th-century New York. Esther's monologues touch on themes of love, dreams, and the limitations imposed on her by society. This monologue is a perfect choice for actors of color women desiring to explore the complexities of their identity in a time of social restrictions.

6. "Eclipsed" - The Girl

Danai Gurira's play, "Eclipsed," centers around the experiences of women kidnapped and held captive during the Liberian Civil War. The monologues performed by The Girl offer a perspective on the strength, resilience, and survival instincts of women in the midst of adversity. For actors of color women, this monologue is an ideal choice to showcase their ability to portray the indomitable spirit of their community.

7. "Yellowman" - Alma Pea

Dael Orlandersmith's play, "Yellowman," explores the complexities of colorism within the African American community. Alma Pea's monologues touch upon themes of love, self-acceptance, and societal prejudice. By performing these monologues, actors of color women can shine a light on the nuances of their own experiences and challenge societal norms.

8. "The Mountaintop" - Camae

Katori Hall's play, "The Mountaintop," reimagines the events of Martin Luther King Jr.'s last night before his assassination. Camae's monologue is a powerful portrayal of a confident and determined woman who challenges King's perspective. For actors of color women, this monologue provides an opportunity to exhibit strength and assertiveness while exploring themes of race, power, and change.

9. "In The Heights" - Vanessa

Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical, "In The Heights," tells the stories of the residents of a predominantly Latino neighborhood in Washington Heights, New York City. Vanessa's monologue captures her hopes and dreams of a better future, presenting the struggles faced by individuals in marginalized communities. This monologue is an excellent choice for actors of color women looking to showcase their versatility and connection to their cultural background.

10. "Sarafina!" - Sarafina

Leleti Khumalo's portrayal of Sarafina in the musical "Sarafina!" offers numerous unforgettable monologues. Set during the apartheid era in South Africa, Sarafina's monologues touch upon the power of resistance, unity, and the desire for freedom. For actors of color women, these monologues provide an opportunity to express their passion for change and their connection to their heritage.

As the entertainment industry continues to embrace diversity and inclusivity, actors of color women have an incredible opportunity to make their mark. These ten monologues offer powerful, thought-provoking material that can resonate with both performers and audiences. By tapping into the unique experiences and perspectives of their communities, actors of color women can bring new depths of emotion and authenticity to the stage and screen.

Monologues for Actors of Color: Women

by Tessa Hainsworth(2nd Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2470 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	126 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	82 pages
Item Weight	:	8 ounces
Dimensions	:	0.25 x 6 x 9 inches

FREE

Actors of colour need the best speeches to demonstrate their skills and hone their craft. Roberta Uno has carefully selected monologues that represent African-American, Native American, Latino, and Asian-American identities. Each monologue comes with an and notes on the characters and stage directions to set the scene for the actor.

This new edition now includes more of the most exciting and accomplished playwrights to have emerged over the 15 years since the Monologues for Actors of Color books were first published, from new, cutting edge talent to Pulitzer winners.