Cabaret Audition Materials, Excerpt 1

Cabaret!

Auditions for Cabaret on October 20, 21

Acting Audition Materials

Please print and study these excerpts, or pick up copies at Fisher Music Library

Excerpt 1

Act 1, scene 6Cliff’s room

ERNST: You know what is the trouble with English?It is not an exact language.Either one must memorize fifty thousand words either one cannot speak it correctly.

CLIFF: Either one must memorize--or one cannot speak.

ERNST: Aha!Either--or.

(Ernst makes a notation in his notebook--then closes it and looks at his watch)

The time is now finished.

CLIFF: I’m in no hurry.

ERNST: But the lesson is one hour.No?Another pupil is waiting.

CLIFF: What other pupil?

ERNST: No other pupil?

(Cliff shakes his head)

Then I make a suggestion.I have many friends.Most anxious for improving their English.I put them on to you.But for tonight, I will telephone a lady friend.She will bring friend for you.Elsa.She is very loving of Americans- Gary Cooper in particular.

CLIFF: Not tonight, Ernst.

ERNST: But you have not seen this Elsa! Hot stuff--believe me!In one minute, I guarantee you are making a pass after her.

CLIFF: A pass at her.

ERNST: Aha!!A pass at her!

CLIFF: I’ve got a date tonight.

ERNST: A typewriter?But what can one do with a typewriter?

CLIFF: Not very much lately.

ERNST: Then come!Perhaps you and I only?We make a large whoopee!

CLIFF: (shakes his head)

I’ve got a budget, Ernst--and it only allows for a very small whoopee- unfortunately.

ERNST: Then you will be my guest!I show you the real Berlin.

CLIFF: It’s very tempting . . .

ERNST: (moving close)

We will acquaint with one another.

CLIFF: As soon as I can afford it . . .

ERNST: It is difficult, you know--adjusting to the idea of a poor American.But I tell you a secret.There is no need for this poverty.Ja!If you are willing--I show you a most excellent way to supplement your income . . .

CLIFF: Doing what?

ERNST: Oh--by taking very brief trips--to Paris.A few days each time.Nothing more.But it will pay you well--extremely well.

Return to Acting Audition Materials

Excerpt 2

Excerpt 3