Monologue Writing Class @ UCLA  April 7, 2022

Writing Monologues with Laurel Ollstein

April 7 – June 9

Thursday evenings – 10 sessions

7-10 pm remote instruction

Craft powerful dramatic and comedic moments by employing techniques of monologue, offering characters the chance to make unforgettable statements within your story.

Sometimes a character can express themselves in a few lines, but at times only a great speech will do. This class will examine the hows and whys of great monologues while helping you craft your own.

A great monologue can be the most memorable moment in a film, play, or novel. A wonderfully written speech can bring an audience to their feet or to their knees. What makes a good monologue? That is what this class/workshop will be exploring and experimenting with.  We read and examine monologues written by Aaron Sorkin to Phoebe Waller-Bridge to Shakespeare to David Sedaris to AOC on the house floor. Each week, we read and discuss, and then you write. These monologues can be based on characters you’re currently working on in your novels, films, or plays—or use these exercises to find new voices and stories.

After ten weeks, you have some wonderfully crafted speeches to use wherever they may live best.

Click here for more information.

• Discover the elements of powerful monologues and speeches
• Explore examples of monologues from television, drama, and politics
• Complete exercises and prompts to practice crafting powerful monologues
• Jumpstart new works or enrich works in progress with moments of monologue and speeches