MONOLOGUES
THE KING’S SMILE
by Philip Jamieson
Suitable for Grade 3
Stage directions
Rene is a famous 18th century portrait artist who is painting a portrait of the King. Rene is frustrated because the King is reluctant to smile. Rene faces the audience holding a paint brush in front of an imaginary canvas on an easel. The imaginary King is seated higher than Rene’s eye level at stage left.
Excerpt
Rene
Yes. Thank you, Your Majesty. Exactly like that. Please try not to move and hold that pose with the sword raised above your head and the shield held down by your left side. Sir, could you please lift the sword a little higher.
Rene listens to the king then responds rather surprised.
A flower? Well yes, it would look pretty, Your Majesty, but do you not think a sword is a more powerful symbol of strength?
Rene listens to the king then responds.
I agree a flower would smell nicer. But (looking around the room), as you can see, I don’t have any flowers in my studio. (Slight pause) May we continue with the sword?
Rene listens to the king then responds slightly alarmed.
Hints & tips
- This monologue is ideal for Grade 3 exams – but can also be used at other levels.
- The character Rene can be male or female.
- You could put a chair on top of a table to represent the King posing for the portrait.
- You can use a paintbrush as a prop for Rene.
- Some vegetables such as a bunch of carrots or a cabbage might also be useful as props.
- Position the King, the easel and yourself very carefully so the audience can see you and hear you clearly as Rene paints the portrait.
