About the Play:

Actor! has long been a favourite of acting teachers for Male Monologues.

Actor! is a full-length comedy by Frederick Stroppel. It's a fast-paced, kaleidoscopic odyssey that charts the life of the title character as he makes is way through the jungle of show business in search of fame, artistic fulfillment and then more fame. From NYC to Los Angeles, we follow his pilgrimage, including those whom he takes with him and those he leaves behind, in search of the perfect role. Actor! is a hilarious, surreal satire on the actor's life.

Actor! is about the epic life of an actor, from birth to death. From the instant he drops from his mother's womb to the moment he is summoned up to the pearly gates, is an actor pre-programmed to always search for his spotlight? As a baby he learns that crying brings nourishment and affection; crying too long and loud results in scolds and smacks. Armed with this lesson about the capricious nature of existence, he launches into his craft as a child playing a Wise Man at Christmas. Then it's on to the acting Mecca of New York and acting lessons, a job in children's theatre and the crushing rejection of auditions. He heads to Hollywood and finds success on television and stardom in movies, but his time at the top is fleeting. Throughout, the Actor encounters a rogues gallery of pompous directors, parasitic agents, narcissistic actresses and desperate screenwriters who influence his journey through this unnatural world. Actor! is a refreshing satire that shines a unique perspective on the behind-the-scenes look at the life of a performer.

Actor! was first performed in 2000 at the Egyptian Arena Theatre in Los Angeles. The play has become a favourite scene study vehicle in acting classes and workshops.

Cast: 2 female, 3 male

What people say:

"Stroppel has penned an entertaining, jaundiced sojourn through the rise and fall of one monumentally self-centered performer. ...The playwright exhibits insight and wit, and mines a plethora of hilarious satiric gems...." — Variety

About the Playwright:

Frederick Stroppel is an American playwright and film writer based in New York. He has been writing for television, film and theatre for over twenty years. His plays have been produced in many well-known off-Broadway theaters and elsewhere.