We spend so much time on our audition songs and monologues that sometimes we forget that there are other aspects to an audition. One of these is the often-asked question, "Tell me about yourself." (This can also be disguised as some other 'leading' question, such as "I see you went to [insert school here].")
You may be asked to describe yourself at an audition or at a meeting with a potential agent. This may seem like the type of question that you can simply "wing", but the reality is that most actors have a well written, well rehearsed answer prepared and if you don't, you are at a disadvantage.
So when you write your introduction monologue, what should you say? Let's start with what you shouldn't say. You shouldn't tell them anything they will already know from looking at your resume, as that would be a waste of time (not to mention boring). You can, however, highlight certain items that you are particularly proud of, such as training with a highly respected name or a particularly choice role in a well known show. Talking about why you love acting and what made you choose this career are also good topics, especially if you can demonstrate some actual knowledge and insight at the same time. Hobbies and talents that are interesting or unique are also excellent because they help you to stand out as an individual.
Tell A Story
Remember what actors really are - storytellers. Telling a story allows you to draw the listener in, captivate them, get them to pay attention. A funny or suspenseful story about how you got hooked on theatre, your most disastrous performance, or someone interesting that you worked with are all great topics.
While minor embellishments to add suspense or humor are fine, don't lie. Telling a story about how you worked with Robin Williams, when you haven't, is a pretty bad idea - and the reasons why should be obvious.
Plan It And Rehearse
Overall, your introductory "monologue" should not be much more than 1 - 2 minutes in length, unless of course you are prompted for more. Remember to always respect the time of your interviewers. That may seem like a very short amount of time, but you'll be surprised by how much you can say when you're thoughts are well-organized.
Although I am speaking of this in terms of a monologue, it is important to realize that in a monologue you are playing a character, but when you are introducing yourself you are being - yourself! It is very important that you come across as genuine. If you have been asked to an interview, or asked this question in an audition, then they are already interested in you - you don't have to push.
If you do several different types of work, or even if you don't, it is probably wise to have more than one of these prepared. You could find yourself in a longer interview situation, or you may meet with the same person more than once. You also never know what "leading" question you might be asked. It's hard to work in a story about your school production when asked about your lone film credit.
Finally, try not to feel as if you alone are being judged or that this is a pass or fail test. In all auditions and interviews, you have a choice as well. You can choose whether or not to take a job or sign with an agent just as they can choose if they want you. So if anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, take it into consideration.
Good luck!
