Opening monologue

Definition

An opening monologue is a key component of variety shows, serving as the initial segment where a host delivers a scripted speech, often filled with humor, commentary, or observations relevant to the audience and current events. This segment sets the tone for the entire show, engaging viewers right from the start and establishing the host's personality. It typically blends entertainment with topical references, helping to connect with the audience and draw them into the show's theme.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Opening monologues are often personalized by hosts to reflect their unique comedic style and perspective on current events.
2. They typically last between 5 to 10 minutes and can include audience interaction or jokes about recent news and pop culture.
3. Hosts use opening monologues to build rapport with their audience, often incorporating relatable content that resonates with viewers' experiences.
4. The effectiveness of an opening monologue can significantly influence viewer engagement, setting up expectations for the rest of the variety show.
5. Many iconic late-night hosts, like Johnny Carson and David Letterman, have become famous for their distinctive opening monologue styles that define their shows.

Review Questions

• How does an opening monologue contribute to setting the tone for a variety show?
  • An opening monologue plays a crucial role in establishing the show's atmosphere by presenting the host's comedic style and perspective on current events. It serves as an initial connection point between the host and the audience, creating engagement right from the start. This segment not only entertains but also aligns viewer expectations for the humor and topics that will be explored throughout the show.
• In what ways do opening monologues reflect societal trends or current events within variety shows?
  • Opening monologues often incorporate references to recent news stories, cultural phenomena, or political events, allowing hosts to comment on societal trends in real time. By addressing these topics, hosts can connect with their audience on relevant issues, making the content feel timely and relatable. This relevance enhances viewer engagement as audiences appreciate humor that resonates with their daily lives and shared experiences.
• Evaluate the evolution of opening monologues in variety shows over time and their impact on audience expectations.
  • Over time, opening monologues in variety shows have evolved to reflect changing social norms, political climates, and audience preferences. Early monologues were often more straightforward and focused solely on humor, while modern approaches frequently integrate sharp commentary on current events and greater audience interaction. This evolution has led audiences to expect not just entertainment but also insightful commentary from hosts, influencing how shows are written and produced in today's entertainment landscape.

Related terms

Stand-up comedy: A comedic performance where a comedian speaks directly to an audience, often including personal anecdotes and observational humor.

Late-night television: A genre of television programming that features talk shows typically airing late at night, often including celebrity interviews and comedic segments.

Cold open: A technique used in television where a show begins with a brief scene before the opening credits, grabbing the audience's attention immediately.