Cheshire Cat Monologue Review

To understand the monologue, we must revisit the source text. When Alice is lost and asks for direction, the Cheshire Cat provides the most frustratingly practical advice ever penned:

For actors tackling this piece for auditions or character studies, the Cheshire Cat presents unique vocal and physical challenges. Vocal Dynamics

A standard performance version of the monologue reads as follows: Cheshire Cat Monologue

Avoid the temptation to deliver the entire monologue in a standard "creepy" whisper.

You ask me which way you ought to go from here? Well, that depends a good deal on where you want to get to. If you don’t much care where—then it doesn’t matter which way you go. As long as you get somewhere . Oh, you’re sure to do that, if you only walk long enough. Everyone arrives somewhere eventually, usually exactly where they didn't want to be. (He leans forward, eyes widening.) To understand the monologue, we must revisit the source text

The monologue, therefore, is an invention. It is a theatrical necessity. Because any actor playing the Cat understands that the character’s power lies not in action, but in verbal destabilization .

The Cat is the only character in Wonderland who recognizes the absurdity of the realm. He does not fight the madness; he thrives in it. You ask me which way you ought to go from here

Heavily contrast the words "that" and "that" in the opening line to physically paint the geography of Wonderland for the audience. Physicality and Subtext

Whether you are performing the 1951 Disney version's smooth jazz vibes or the 2010 Burton version's more somber, smoky tone, the heart of the monologue remains the same: the world is crazy, and the only way to survive is to enjoy the nonsense.