What is a play with only one actor called?

By Webmaster

  • What is a play with only one actor called?

    Exploring the art of the one-person show and its impact on theater and performance

    (By Carmichael Phillip)


  • Defining the Solo Performance: What Is a One-Person Play?

    A play with only one actor is typically called a monodrama or solo performance. In theatrical terms, this form is a unique, intimate mode of storytelling that allows a single performer to carry an entire narrative. It may involve the actor portraying one character throughout, or switching between multiple personas using voice, physicality, and minimal props.

    Monodramas can be fictional, autobiographical, or documentary-style. Regardless of structure, they rely heavily on the performer’s charisma, vocal dynamics, and stage presence to engage audiences for the full duration.

    The term “monodrama” originated in the 18th century and was used to describe a dramatic piece with only one character. Today, the broader term “one-person show” is often used in both theatrical and stand-up comedy contexts.


  • A Brief History of One-Person Shows

    Though modern solo performances are often associated with contemporary theater, the roots of monodrama go back centuries. Ancient Greek theater included long monologues, and Roman orators like Cicero blurred the lines between rhetoric and performance. During the Renaissance, actors such as Shakespeare’s performers used soliloquies as central narrative devices.

    In the 19th century, the form gained popularity as traveling artists began to perform dramatic recitations. One of the most famous was Charles Dickens, who toured with solo readings of his own novels, captivating audiences with his vivid character portrayals.

    Later, 20th-century artists such as Ruth Draper, known for her “character sketches,” and Hal Holbrook, famed for his portrayal of Mark Twain, pushed the boundaries of the form. These pioneers inspired generations of actors to use the stage as a personal platform.


  • Examples of Iconic One-Person Plays

    There are many celebrated examples of solo plays that have captivated audiences worldwide. These performances range from introspective journeys to powerful political commentaries.

    One of the most famous examples is “A Bronx Tale”, written and performed by Chazz Palminteri. The show recounts his youth in the Bronx, blending humor and pathos in a stunning demonstration of narrative control.

    Another standout is “Thom Pain (based on nothing)” by Will Eno, a darkly poetic piece performed by a single actor who confronts existential themes with both sarcasm and sincerity.

    Anna Deavere Smith’s “Fires in the Mirror” is a groundbreaking example of documentary theater, where Smith portrays dozens of real people affected by the Crown Heights riots. She combines journalism and performance into a compelling monologue tapestry.

    Mike Birbiglia’s “Sleepwalk with Me” is another unique one-man show that blends stand-up comedy and memoir, exploring his sleep disorder and its impact on his life.

    These examples highlight how the solo play can be both deeply personal and universally resonant.


  • Why Performers Choose the Solo Format

    A one-person show offers creative freedom and personal expression that ensemble pieces may not. Many performers choose this format to tell a story that’s uniquely their own, without compromising on interpretation or direction.

    As actress and writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge noted in an interview about her solo show Fleabag:

    “When you’re alone on stage, it’s terrifying—but it’s also the most empowering feeling in the world. You’re entirely responsible for what happens.”

    This format also allows for flexibility in production. With fewer actors and minimal set requirements, solo plays are easier to tour and more adaptable to unconventional venues like cafes, libraries, or online streaming platforms.

    Moreover, the form allows actors to explore multiple characters and perspectives, creating a more immersive narrative experience than traditional monologue or stand-up.


  • Challenges of a One-Person Play

    While rewarding, solo performances are extremely demanding. The performer must carry the entire emotional and narrative weight, maintaining energy and audience engagement for the full duration—often 60 to 90 minutes or more.

    There’s no one to share the spotlight or rescue a faltering moment. Memory, stamina, and timing become critical. The lack of interaction with fellow performers also means the actor must self-generate dramatic tension.

    Critics and directors alike often note that one-person shows can become too introspective or static if not well-written and dynamically performed. Movement, light changes, sound, and pacing are essential tools to maintain theatricality.

    As actor John Leguizamo, who has written and starred in several one-man shows, put it:

    “You’re exposed. There’s nowhere to hide. But that’s what makes it so raw and beautiful.”


  • Famous Actors and Their Solo Shows

    Many acclaimed actors have taken on the challenge of the one-person show to explore deeper artistic territory or personal stories.

    Lily Tomlin’s “The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe” (written by Jane Wagner) is a prime example. Tomlin plays a multitude of characters, shifting from comedic to poignant in seconds.

    Billy Crystal’s “700 Sundays” tells the story of his childhood and relationship with his father, blending humor, tragedy, and heartwarming anecdotes.

    Daniel Kitson, a British comedian and playwright, has gained cult status for his one-man storytelling shows, which are filled with philosophical wit and literary elegance.

    And of course, Whoopi Goldberg’s 1984 Broadway debut in a one-woman show introduced the world to her immense talent, eventually launching her film and TV career.

    These artists have used solo performance not just as a theatrical experiment, but as a signature expression of voice and vision.


  • Monodrama in Contemporary Theater and Film

    The solo performance format has found new relevance in digital and minimalist theater. With the rise of streaming and online performance during the COVID-19 pandemic, many creators turned to monodrama as a way to produce compelling content without large casts or crews.

    Streaming platforms, podcasts, and audiobooks now regularly feature dramatized monologues or narrative performances delivered by a single voice. This intimate form of storytelling has become popular in both fictional and nonfictional content.

    Examples like Bo Burnham’s “Inside”, though technically a filmed special, exhibit many elements of monodrama: a single performer, confined space, evolving emotional arcs, and artistic experimentation.

    Similarly, stage-to-screen adaptations like “Fleabag”, filmed from its stage run, show how solo performances can translate powerfully across media.


  • The Power of the Individual Voice

    Ultimately, a one-person play is more than just a theatrical form—it’s a statement of confidence, vulnerability, and artistic risk. The intimacy between performer and audience in such shows fosters deep emotional connections and lingering impact.

    When crafted well, a solo show offers a singular experience—a direct channel between artist and audience, unfiltered by ensemble dynamics or elaborate staging. Whether it’s a story of personal loss, political awakening, or absurd comedy, the solo performer becomes both the storyteller and the story itself.

    As playwright and solo performer Spalding Gray once said:

    “A monologue is not just about telling your story—it’s about finding something that resonates universally.”


  • Conclusion: The One-Person Play as Theater’s Purest Form

    So, what is a play with only one actor called? It’s a monodrama, a solo show, a one-person performance—but beyond labels, it is theater at its most distilled. It is a stage where one voice becomes many, one story becomes universal, and one performer becomes unforgettable.

    From Charles Dickens to Lily Tomlin, from A Bronx Tale to Fires in the Mirror, these performances exemplify the power of singular storytelling. They challenge both artist and audience to engage deeply, reflect honestly, and connect intimately.

    As the theater continues to evolve, the solo performance remains a timeless testament to the power of the individual human voice.

    Recommended Posts

  • Ad

  • Who is the voice in Reese’s commercials?

    Who is the voice in Reese’s commercials? Unwrapping the deep, devilish tones behind Reese’s iconic ads (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The unmistakable voice of Reese’s When Reese’s launches a new product or playful…

    Who’s Voice Is on Home Depot Commercials?

    Who’s Voice Is on Home Depot Commercials? Uncovering the familiar—and often divisive—voice behind one of America’s most heard ad campaigns (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: that unmistakable tone Love it or hate it, the…

    Who is the woman in the Viagra commercial?

    Who is the woman in the Viagra commercial? Uncovering the actresses behind Viagra’s memorable ads (By Carmichael Phillip) Kelly King: The “Cuddle Up” Commercial Star Kelly King, a Los Angeles–based actress, gained attention for starring in…

    Who is the voice actor for Ford Pines?

    Who is the voice actor for Ford Pines? Unveiling the voice behind Gravity Falls’ brilliant author (By Carmichael Phillip) Introducing Ford Pines & the Voice Behind Him In the eerie and enchanting town of Gravity…

    Who is the actress in the Tampax commercials?

    Who is the actress in the Tampax commercials? Unpacking the faces behind today’s bold and talkative Tampax ads (By Carmichael Phillip) For years, Tampax has taken a refreshingly direct—and often humorous—approach to normalizing menstruation….

  • Ad

  • Who is the voice of the Sugar Bear cereal?

    Who is the voice of the Sugar Bear cereal? Unwrapping the smooth‑talking crooner behind Golden Crisp’s beloved mascot (By Carmichael Phillip) Introducing Sugar Bear: Cereal Icon Through the Decades Sugar Bear—Post’s sweet-talking mascot for…

    Whose voice is on the Harbor Freight commercials?

    Whose voice is on the Harbor Freight commercials? Unveiling the deep, commanding voice behind the “Job Well Done, Great Price” slogan (By Carmichael Phillip) The Sound You Know: Harbor Freight’s Signature Voice You’ve…

    Who is the voice in the Mucinex commercial?

    Who is the voice in the Mucinex commercial? Unveiling the voice behind Mr. Mucus — from classic goo to modern giggles (By Carmichael Phillip) Meet Mr. Mucus: The Mascot with an Accent One glance at…

  • Ad

  • Who is in the Olympic commercial with Ray Romano?

    Who is in the Olympic commercial with Ray Romano? Unpacking the comedic duo behind NBC’s Milan‑Cortina promo (By Carmichael Phillip) Getting to Know Ray Romano Raymond Albert Romano, born December 21, 1957 in New York…

    What actress does the Home Shield commercial?

    What actress does the Home Shield commercial? Unmasking the face behind Warrantina, the quirky Home Shield icon (By Carmichael Phillip) First Look: Who is “Warrantina”? Every now and then, a commercial character captures…

    Who is the voice on the Huggies commercial?

    Who is the voice on the Huggies commercial? Unpacking the unmistakable tone behind “We Got You, Baby” and what makes it so memorable (By Carmichael Phillip) Huggies diapers have built a powerful brand…

    Who is the girl in the Claritin commercial?

    Who is the girl in the Claritin commercial? Meet the face (and sneeze-resistant smile) behind the allergy relief ads… (By Carmichael Phillip) Claritin’s allergy season campaigns often feature bright, engaging characters—there’s the little…

    Who does the voice of the bear in the Robitussin Honey commercial?

    Who does the voice of the bear in the Robitussin Honey commercial? Meet the grizzly guest who insists your cough needs more than honey—it needs a friendly nudge (By Carmichael Phillip) Robitussin’s “Window…

  • Ad

  • What commercials does Ray Romano do?

    What commercials does Ray Romano do? A look at the funny side hustles of Everybody Loves Raymond’s beloved star… (By Carmichael Phillip) Ray Romano has entertained us for decades—as the everyman dad on…

    Who is the girl in the new Kohl’s commercial?

    Who is the girl in the new Kohl’s commercial? A close-up on the face behind the friendly shopping assistant everyone’s been talking about… (By Carmichael Phillip) Kohl’s viewers across the country have been…

    Who is the blonde actress in the Rakuten commercial?

    Who is the blonde actress in the Rakuten commercial? Unpacking the Glamour, Wit, and Fame Behind the Face of Rakuten (By Carmichael Phillip) The Star of the Show: Who Is She? The blonde…

  • Ad

  • Who are the actresses in the Poise commercial?

    Who are the actresses in the Poise commercial? Unmasking the Women Behind the Confidence-Inspiring Campaign (By Carmichael Phillip) The Face of Confidence: Who is the Main Actress in the Poise Commercial? Poise commercials…

    WHO ARE THE ACTORS IN THE KINETICO WATER COMMERCIAL?

    WHO ARE THE ACTORS IN THE KINETICO WATER COMMERCIAL? Unmasking the faces behind the flow (By Carmichael Phillip) Kinetico Water Systems has been known for its engaging TV commercials featuring real people—families, homeowners,…

    WHO ARE THE ACTORS IN THE SCRUBS COMMERCIAL?

    WHO ARE THE ACTORS IN THE SCRUBS COMMERCIAL? Reunions, celebs, and the story behind the viral ads (By Carmichael Phillip) The nostalgic “Scrubs” cast didn’t just drop off the medical stage—they’ve been starring…

    WHO ARE THE ACTRESSES IN THE L’ORÉAL HYALURONIC ACID COMMERCIAL?

    WHO ARE THE ACTRESSES IN THE L’ORÉAL HYALURONIC ACID COMMERCIAL? Unveiling the faces behind the glow (By Carmichael Phillip) When you think of the radiant visage behind L’Oréal’s Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid ads, one…

    Who is the actress in the Maison Perrier water commercial?

    Who is the actress in the Maison Perrier water commercial? Uncovering the face behind the sparkling campaign (By Carmichael Phillip) In recent months, the Maison Perrier sparkling water commercials have graced TV screens…

  • Ad