Theseus Monologues
Male, 30s-50s+. Theseus is the Duke of Athens and is usually played as stern and commanding, sometimes fearsome or militaristic. The role is sometimes doubled with Oberon. The role is often suited to a “sergeant” or “lawyer” type older/mature male.
Demetrius Monologues
Male, 20s-30s. Demetrius is the less likeable of the two male leads and is often played as a bit of a dirtbag. From the outset of the play, we are told that Demetrius hooked up with Helena and now is pursuing her best friend Hermia. He is typically an arrogant or sleazy casting type (though he does make good at the end of the play, as you’ll see in his one monologue).
Lysander Monologues
Male, 20s-30s. Lysander is typically the softer of the two leading men and a bit of a romantic (one of his lines is the famous, “the course of true love never did run smooth”). He is often played by a friendly, guy-next-door type.
Hermia’s Monologues
Female, 20s-30s. Hermia is usually cast as short and dark-haired, as there are references to her height and colouring in the text. She is often played as serious, sometimes tough or feisty, and tends to be the grounded counterpoint to Helena’s flightiness.
Puck’s Monologues
Puck, or Robin Goodfellow, is a cheeky sprite who causes trouble (accidentally and on purpose) all through A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The character is referred to as a ‘he’, but it is common for Puck to be played by actors of all ages and genders. If you have a cheeky, youthful vibe (or sometimes a roguish, trouble-maker vibe), and an energetic physicality, Puck might be a good fit for you.
Helena’s Monologues
Helena is generally cast as young, tall and with light coloured hair. This is due to references in the text about her height and colouring, however it can vary, depending on the casting of Hermia, who is said to be shorter than Helena and with darker coloured hair. However, for the purposes of an audition or exam, especially for drama school, don’t worry too much about whether you are the right height. Mostly you will need to have a comic ability, and good stamina - Helena has a lot of monologues! She also has a self-pitying quality, which can be tricky to play.