The art of the monologue

Ashbourne and District U3A

ASHBOURNE U3A held its December monthly meeting at Ashbourne Elim church on the afternoon of Friday 3rd December. Around 75 members attended. This meeting had a definitely Christmassy flavour with many of the attendees wearing Christmasthemed clothing.

The talk was given by Mr David Skillen and was entitled “Can you hear me, Mother?” This was an account of the Art of the Monologue.

Mr Skillen traced the development of the monologue as a form of self-expression over time, starting with his rendition of Stanley Holloway’s “The Battle of Hastings”.

He described the distinction between monologues and soliloquies, the latter as exemplified in Shakespeare’s work.

He also described how monologues were and are connected with political speech making, as illustrated by the oratory of Abraham Lincoln and Cicero.

Mr Skillen then also mentioned Black Minstrel monologues, as performed in the southern USA (clearly now a contentious area).

Finally he described the work of Bernard Miles and Robb Wilton and gave a performance of “Albert and the Lion”.

The audience clearly found Mr Skillen’s talk both interesting and amusing.

After this there was the Christmas raffle draw, which led to an air of considerable tension in the hall!

Finally the U3A Ukulele group gave a polished rendition of three carols and a couple of other songs.

A merry time was had by all. The next U3A monthly meeting will be held on Friday, 7th January (viruses and politicians permitting).