Key Stage 4

Once submitted, all monologues are reviewed by our judges and go through several selection rounds.

Standout entries are chosen for the Regional Shortlist, then reviewed in a virtual regional final, where one winner per region is selected to advance to the National Final.

Note: We aim to introduce Live Regional Finals in 2026!

One monologue from each region, age group, and category will be selected – meaning multiple finalists will represent each region across the competition's four categories.

Any young person aged 9 to 19 living in the United Kingdom is welcome to enter.
You can apply through a school, youth theatre, drama club, or independently.

Yes! Monologues that impress the judges but don’t quite make the Regional Shortlist may still be awarded a Regional Merit or be marked as Highly Commended.

We believe it’s vital that the competition represents the whole of the UK.
That’s why every region will have a chance to be represented in the Live Final.

Yes! We’d love to see your work across different categories.
You’re welcome to enter in one or all four – and there’s a discounted rate when you do.

You can enter as many monologues as you like, but since there’s an entry fee for each, we recommend submitting the one you feel is strongest and has the best chance of being shortlisted.

This is one of the hardest questions to answer, as we don’t use a strict marking scheme or fixed criteria.

Essentially, we’re looking for speeches that truly connect – performances that feel honest, engaging, and emotionally present.

We want to see actors who understand their character, have a clear sense of who they’re speaking to and why, and who bring something truthful and unique to the piece.

It’s not about perfection – it’s about connection, clarity, and commitment.

Yes – we offer financial support through bursaries.
Please see the bursary information below for full details.

There is a £5 entry fee per monologue.

If you enter multiple monologues or categories, discounts are available. 

Including your school name helps us understand which schools are engaging with the competition and where the talent is coming from. It also allows us to consider your school for our School Prizes.

Even if you're entering independently, we encourage you to add your school name — but it’s optional, and you may leave it blank if you prefer.

We recommend choosing a solo monologue, but if a speech includes brief interruptions from other characters, that's okay – you can cut them out - just make surethat the speech flows still.

No professional setup is required – just a clear, well-lit video with good sound. A smartphone or tablet will do, as long as we can see and hear you clearly.

No – your performance should be filmed in one continuous take with no cuts or edits, to reflect a live performance.

You can, but you don't have to. We recommend that you keep it simple. Minimal or no costume and props is best – we want to focus on your acting, not the extras.

Yes – all entries are reviewed by a trusted panel of professionals and we ask students to avoid explicit content or swearing, especially in the younger age groups.

Only shortlisted or winning entries will be shared online, unless notified, and always with parental/guardian permission for under-18s. Videos will only be shared on our website and social platforms. 

Encourage them to choose a piece they connect with, help with filming, and make sure they understand the monologue’s context.

Yes! Use the School’s Pass for bulk entries, easier admin, and discounted rates.

Yes, especially if you’re using the School’s Pass – you’ll be provided with a single upload link for your group.

We don’t offer formal feedback for all entries at the moment, but this is something that we are looking at. Select entries may also receive judge comments. The Studio offers monthly feedback opportunities.